Vitamina D en enfermedades respiratorias: desde la influenza hasta el COVID-19

Active vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) is a steroid hormone that has multiple functions, including: calcium-phospho-rus metabolism and bone mineralization; but, it also has a fundamental role in the functioning of the immune system, being an essential tool in the response against bacterial infections (including mycobacteria), fungi and viruses. A strong association between hypovitaminosis D and the development of respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, influenza virus infection, up to the current pandemic COVID-19 has been demonstrated. Hence the importance of identifying patients with vitamin D deficiency early, in order to correct their levels and prevent infectious processes that increase morbidity and mortality.