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Serum or plasma concentration of vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of vitamin D in your blood, which is important for bone health and other bodily functions.

Quick summary

["Vitamin D helps maintain strong bones and supports immune function."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40508-4
Short code
JCV IgM Titr Ser Nt
Synonyms
JCV IgM Titr Ser Nt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
neut
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check if you have enough vitamin D, which can be important for preventing conditions like osteoporosis or rickets, especially if you have limited sun exposure, a diet low in vitamin D-rich foods, or certain medical conditions that affect vitamin D absorption.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from a vein. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any necessary identification.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. The process is quick and typically causes only mild discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results will show the level of vitamin D in your blood. Low levels may indicate vitamin D deficiency, while higher levels could be due to over-supplementation or other factors. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your health status.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weakened bones, muscle weakness, fatigue, or increased risk of certain health conditions like osteoporosis or autoimmune diseases. Conversely, very high levels may cause symptoms like nausea, confusion, or kidney problems, though this is rare without medical intervention.

Short name

Vitamin D Level

Frequently asked questions

Why might my vitamin D level be checked if I don’t have obvious symptoms?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have risk factors like limited sun exposure, dark skin, obesity, or certain medical conditions (e.g., malabsorption disorders). It’s also sometimes checked as part of routine health screenings or during pregnancy.
What if my vitamin D level is low?
If your results show low vitamin D, your doctor may recommend dietary changes (e.g., more fortified foods or fatty fish), sunlight exposure, or supplements under medical supervision to help restore healthy levels.
Can vitamin D levels change quickly, or does it take time to adjust?
Vitamin D levels can take weeks to months to normalize with supplements or lifestyle changes, depending on the severity of deficiency. Your doctor will likely monitor your levels over time to ensure they improve safely.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy