Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a form of diabetes mellitus type 1 that occurs in adulthood, often with a slower course of onset than type 1 diabetes diagnosed in juveniles.

Overview

LADA is a form of Type 1 diabetes that is diagnosed in individuals who are older than the typical age of onset of type 1 diabetes. This form of diabetes is characterized by the presence of similar autoantibodies to those found in type 1 diabetes, but with a slower progression of beta cell destruction. This results in a form of type 1 diabetes that may initially be mistaken for Type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of LADA are similar to those of other forms of diabetes, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, and fatigue. However, because the onset of LADA is slower than that of juvenile type 1 diabetes, these symptoms may be less severe or noticeable at first.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of LADA is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. The presence of autoantibodies against glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) is a key marker for LADA.

Treatment

Treatment for LADA typically involves the use of insulin, similar to the treatment for type 1 diabetes. However, because the destruction of beta cells is slower in LADA, some individuals may initially be able to manage their blood glucose levels with lifestyle changes or oral medications.

See also

• Diabetes mellitus type 1
• Diabetes mellitus type 2
• Autoimmune disease
• Glutamic acid decarboxylase

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