The aim of the present study was to evaluate the degree of serum vitamin D deficiency in patients with osteoporotic spinal compression fracture and correlation of serum vitamin D level with several variables.

The medical records of 134 patients with osteoporotic spinal compression fracture, diagnosed at our hospital between October 2008 and June 2011, were reviewed. Serum 25(OH)vitamin D₃ was used to evaluate the status of vitamin D level. Serum 25(OH)vitamin D₃ level was compared and analyzed according to sex, the number of fractured vertebral body, living environment, and the season of injury. The correlation between vitamin D level and age, bone mineral density, and bone turnover marker were evaluated.

In the serum 25(OH)vitamin D₃, 87 patients (65%) associated with osteoporotic spinal compression fracture had an insufficient level. Vitamin D level was the lowest in winter, the highest in summer, and significantly higher in the living home than nursing home. Vitamin D level was negatively correlated with age (r=-0.201, p=0.02) and positively correlated with bone mineral density (r=0.217, p=0.012).

Evaluation of vitamin D level in osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture patients may be helpful in planning the treatment of the patients. For insufficient vitamin D level, the adequate sun exposure and supplement of vitamin D may be used.