Wrong Vitamin D Test Orders Increasing
Wrong Vitamin D Test Orders Increasing
Source: Medscape Medical News – September 11, 2025
Key notes:
1. Correct test: 25-OH vitamin D → measures vitamin D status; use for deficiency.
2. Wrong test misuse: 1,25-dihydroxy should be ordered only in special cases (CKD, hypercalcemia).
3. Problem: Inappropriate orders for 1,25-dihydroxy tests are rising, despite guidelines (Choosing Wisely).
• This test does not reflect vitamin D status; in deficiency, its levels may rise, not fall.
• 1,25-dihydroxy tests are about double the cost of 25-OH.
• Online ordering rose from 12% (2011) → 98% (2023).
4. Clinical risks:
• Wrong test can give false reassurance (normal 1,25 levels despite deficiency).
5. Impact: Higher costs, delays, and false reassurance in true deficiency → need better education + Electronic Health Records ( EHR) alerts.