Type 1.5 diabetes is a condition known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA). According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), LADA includes features of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and often goes unrecognized.

Like Type 1 diabetes, LADA is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system gradually attacks the insulin-producing β-cells in the pancreas. Unlike classic Type 1 (which often strikes in childhood or adolescence), LADA develops more slowly, often in adults between the ages of 30 and 35, who have symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. LADA’s gradual onset may not require insulin at diagnosis and may respond briefly to oral diabetes medications. However, over time, insulin production usually declines, making insulin therapy necessary.

Symptoms & Diagnosis.

The Cleveland Clinic says symptoms of LADA resemble those of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, including increased thirst and urination, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision. However, LADA symptoms tend to appear gradually. Diagnosis may include testing for autoantibodies to detect the autoimmune element and measuring C-peptide levels, which reflect the amount of insulin the pancreas is still producing.

Treatment.

The AAFP suggests that early on, lifestyle measures (such as a healthy diet, exercise, and weight control) and some oral medications may be beneficial. However, because the autoimmune destruction continues, insulin therapy eventually becomes necessary. Some evidence suggests that earlier insulin use may help preserve remaining β-cell function.

If you have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, but are not responding to treatment as expected, you may want to ask your doctor about LADA. Locally, LADA patients are seen at the Diabetes-Endocrinology Center of Western New York, UBMD, Buffalo Medical Group Endocrinology, Elmwood Village Health, and Catholic Health.