Vitamin D is being increasingly investigated in the context of pancreatitis, particularly due to its essential role in immune modulation and inflammation. Several studies have reported that patients with both acute and chronic pancreatitis often present with vitamin D deficiency, which may be attributed to malabsorption and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Observational studies have found associations between low vitamin D levels and increased severity or complications in pancreatitis, suggesting a potential benefit in correcting deficiencies.

However, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) directly evaluating vitamin D supplementation as a treatment for pancreatitis are limited. Most evidence to date is indirect, focusing on vitamin D’s role in bone health (given the risk of osteoporosis in chronic pancreatitis) and immune response. Some studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation may help reduce the risk of infections and improve general health outcomes in these patients, but there is insufficient robust evidence to recommend vitamin D as a primary treatment for pancreatitis itself.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and observational support for monitoring and correcting vitamin D deficiency in pancreatitis patients, especially to prevent bone disease and possibly help immune function, the direct evidence for using vitamin D to treat or significantly alter the course of pancreatitis is weak (evidence rating: 2/5). Supplementation is generally recommended to correct deficiency rather than as a specific treatment for pancreatitis.