Vitamin D as a modulator of pain and inflammation in postmenopausal females with burning mouth syndrome

Background: Vitamin D has roles in neurological, hormonal and immunological processes, affecting various pain disorders and related comorbidities. The aim of this study was to investigate relationship between vitamin D levels and clinical features in postmenopausal females with burning mouth syndrome (BMS). Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study reviewed clinical and laboratory data from 144 postmenopausal females with BMS. Laboratory tests measured 25-(OH) hydroxyvitamin D, hematic components and inflammatory markers. Participants were categorized by serum levels of 25-(OH) hydroxyvitamin D, as deficient (<20 ng/mL), inadequate (20–30 ng/mL), and adequate (>30 ng/mL). Pain intensity and oral health-related quality of life were assessed using visual analog scale (VAS), McGuill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and Oral Health Impact Profile-49 (OHIP-49). Results: Pain intensity and oral health-related quality of life were associated with serum vitamin D levels. Hemoglobin, folic acid and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) concentrations varied among groups. Serum 25-(OH) hydroxyvitamin D levels showed negative correlation with VAS, MPQ sensory, MPQ affective, MPQ evaluative and OHIP-49 scores, indicating lower pain intensity and suffering with higher vitamin D levels. Additionally, iron levels were negatively related to VAS score, while folic acid levels were negatively associated with OHIP-49 score. Serum 25-(OH) hydroxyvitamin D levels were negatively correlated with hs-CRP levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest significant interactions between 25-(OH) hydroxyvitamin D levels and pain intensity and suffering and oral health-related quality of life, indicating its therapeutic potential for postmenopausal BMS patients.