Vitamin D and Otitis Media

Abstract

Purpose of review: To examine the relationship between vitamin D and otitis media.

Recent findings: Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with several respiratory diseases, including otitis media. Vitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk of otitis media. This relationship may be explained by vitamin D supporting the immune system by upregulating antimicrobial peptides which are effective against otopathogens and biofilm formation, supporting a less inflammatory immune response, or promoting beneficial commensal bacteria. This review will explore risk factors of both otitis media and vitamin D deficiency, the evidence of vitamin D being beneficial for various forms of otitis media, and possible mechanisms of action.

Keywords: Antimicrobial peptides; Biofilms; Cytokines; Otitis media; Respiratory microbiota; Upper respiratory tract infections; Viral infections; Vitamin D.