Unmasking Latent Autoimmune Diabetes: A Case That Challenges Type 2 Diabetes

TL;DR

This paper presents a case of a woman initially diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who was later found to have LADA, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis for better treatment outcomes.

Contribution

The paper highlights the diagnostic challenges of LADA and emphasizes the need for increased awareness among clinicians.

Findings

A 60-year-old woman with T2DM diagnosis was later found to have LADA after experiencing unexplained DKA.

Persistent elevated HbA1c despite treatment led to further evaluation and correct diagnosis.

Timely diagnosis of LADA can significantly alter management and improve patient outcomes.

Abstract

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is an underrecognized form of autoimmune diabetes that is commonly misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) because of its indolent progression and overlapping features with metabolic syndrome. We present a case of a 60-year-old woman with an initial diagnosis of T2DM who persistently had elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) despite optimal treatment and lifestyle modifications. After subsequent hospitalization and an episode of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), further evaluation unmasked the diagnosis of LADA. This case emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion for adults with poor glycemic control or unexplained DKA, as a timely diagnosis can significantly alter management and improve outcomes.

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