Latent autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

This is slowly evolving immune mediated diabetes (SEIMD). It can initially be managed with healthy eating and exercise, however over time glucose lowering medication will be introduced. Introduction of glucose lowering medication for LADA happens sooner compared to Type 2 Diabetes.

Diagnosis

A blood check is performed in search for autoantibodies (AA). These are proteins in the blood showing that a person’s own immune system is attacking the beta cells of the pancreas. This is not usually the case with Type 2 Diabetes. In general antibodies are proteins produced by the body’s immune system to fight illness and infection. There are some antibodies that mistakenly fight organs, tissues or cells of the body. Presence of auto antibodies are a sign that damage is happening.

A C-peptide blood test may also be done prior to diagnosis. This test shows how much insulin the body is making.  C- Peptide levels reduce more slowly in LADA compared to Type 1 diabetes. This test assists with making a decision on when to start insulin therapy.

Treatment

Lifestyle changes are very helpful in managing LADA especially in individuals who are overweight.

Monitoring of blood glucose levels help provide informed data that can be used for making appropriate changes.

Having a healthy eating pattern in reference to the Australian guide to healthy eating being mindful of appropriate portion sizes of the carbohydrates.

Glucose lowering medication can be used as well.

It is recommended for individuals with LADA to also undergo Screening for other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid and celiac disease.

Reference:  WHO 2019