Latent Autoimmune Diabetes - Comparison Between LADA, Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

Comparison Between LADA, Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

LADA is slow-onset Type 1 autoimmune diabetes in adulthood (NIDDK - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases ).

• Onset: Type 1 diabetes onsets rapidly and at a younger age than does LADA.

• Family history: There is often a family history of autoimmune conditions (for example, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases, etc.). Furthermore, some individuals with LADA may have a family history of T2DM.

• Antibodies: Persons with type 1 diabetes and LADA usually test positive for certain (same) antibodies (GAD, ICA, IA-2) that are not present in type 2 diabetes. Moreover, there are also TCF7L2 genes associated with Type 2 diabetes involved in latent autoimmune diabetes of adults.

• GAD antibodies: Persons with LADA usually test positive for GAD antibodies, whereas in type 1 diabetes these antibodies are more commonly seen in adults rather than in children.

• Lifestyle and excess weight: People with LADA typically have a normal BMI or may be underweight due to weight loss prior to diagnosis. But some people with LADA may be overweight to mildly obese. LADA (Type 1 diabetes) is an autoimmune disease that cannot be prevented.

• Prognosis: About 80% of all persons initially diagnosed with type 2, who also have GAD antibodies, will become insulin dependent within 3 to 12 years (according to differing LADA sources). Those with both GAD and IA2 antibodies, however, will become insulin dependent sooner. LADA occurs slowly, but progresses towards insulin dependency.

• Treatment: Although LADA may appear to initially respond to similar treatment (lifestyle and medications, sometimes weight loss if needed) as type 2 diabetes, it will not halt or slow the progression of beta cell destruction, and people with LADA will eventually become insulin dependent.