Atypical Diabetes and Management Considerations.

Abstract

Type of diabetes is not always straightforward at presentation. Misdiagnosis is common in all age groups and diagnosis becomes evident over time. Patients with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults constitute up to 12% of all patients with diabetes, and they share immunogenetic and phenotypic features of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. They are commonly misdiagnosed as having type 2 diabetes mellitus, resulting in a delay in initiating insulin. Patients with ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus are often misdiagnosed as having type 1 diabetes mellitus. Correct diagnosis helps wean patients off of insulin and use noninsulin agents if needed.