Rare and monogenic diabetes care

Up to 80% of MODY cases are misdiagnosed as type 1 or 2 diabetes

(Reference: Shields BM, Hicks S, Shepherd MH, et al.; Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY): how many cases are we missing?. Diabetologia. 2010;53(12):2504-2508)

While type 1 and type 2 diabetes are well known, rarer forms like MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young), LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults), and neonatal diabetes can be harder to diagnose and manage. These types often require specialized treatment beyond standard diabetes care. Left untreated, they can lead to severe complications, including early-onset cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss. Identifying these rare types early is crucial for effective management and better long-term health outcomes.

Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)

What is MODY

MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young) is a rare form of diabetes that is often misdiagnosed as type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It is a monogenic form of diabetes, meaning it is caused by a mutation in a single gene. MODY typically appears before the age of 25 and runs in families.

Causes

MODY is caused by genetic mutations that affect insulin production. The specific gene affected determines the subtype of MODY

Symptoms

Symptoms may be similar to those of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes but often less severe. In other words, mild to moderate high blood sugar levels.

Diagnosis

Genetic testing to identify specific gene mutations and blood tests to measure blood sugar levels

Treatment

 Treatment of MODY typically includes lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, oral diabetes medications, and even insulin therapy

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

What is LADA?

LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults), also known as type 1.5 diabetes, is an autoimmune form of diabetes that develops in adulthood. It shares characteristics with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Causes

 LADA is caused by an autoimmune response that gradually destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas

Symptoms

Increased thirst and frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores

Diagnosis

Blood sugar tests to confirm diabetes
Autoantibody tests to detect autoimmune markers
C-Peptide test to measure insulin production

Treatment

Lifestyle change
Oral medication
Insulin (if needed)

Steroid-induced diabetes

What is steroid-induced diabetes?

Steroid-induced diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs as a side effect of prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone.

Causes

Long-term use of corticosteroids
Higher doses and longer duration of steroid treatment

Symptoms

Increased thirst and frequent urination
Increased hunger
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision

Diagnosis

Blood sugar tests to confirm elevated levels
Review of medication history

Treatment

Adjusting the steroid dosage
Blood sugar monitoring
Diabetes medications or insulin
Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise

Type 3c diabetes

What is type 3c diabetes?

Type 3c diabetes, also known as pancreatogenic diabetes, is caused by damage to the pancreas. This damage can result from pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, or other pancreatic diseases

Causes