LADA Diabetes in a Young Adult Male: A Clinical Case Report.

Abstract

Introduction:

LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults) is an autoimmune form of diabetes that presents characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment and the prevention of severe complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Objective:

To describe the case of a patient with LADA diabetes, highlighting his diagnosis, treatment, and clinical progression, as well as the importance of a comprehensive approach in managing the condition.

Case Presentation:

A 34-year-old male with a history of insulin resistance and episodes of persistent hyperglycemia, initially diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Following the detection of anti-GAD65 and anti-insulin antibodies, the diagnosis of LADA diabetes was confirmed. The patient presented with sequelae paraparesis after admission to the ICU due to severe diabetic ketoacidosis, requiring ventilatory support and rescue dialysis. The treatment consisted of basal insulin (Glargine), postprandial insulin (Lispro), and adjusted metformin.

Discussion:

LADA diabetes can be challenging to differentiate from type 2 diabetes due to the coexistence of insulin resistance in its early stages. The diagnosis is confirmed through the presence of autoimmune antibodies, such as anti-GAD65 and anti-insulin. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a severe complication that can occur in this type of diabetes due to the progressive loss of pancreatic beta-cell function.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for managing LADA diabetes and preventing complications. Continuous follow-up, self-care education, and multidisciplinary collaboration are essential to improving the patient's quality of life.

Jorge Hernández¹, Valentina Ochoa Castellanos¹, Luis Andrés Dulcey Sarmiento², Valentina Hernández Navas¹, Juan Sebastián Therán León¹, Jaime Alberto Gómez Ayala³

¹ Department of Internal Medicine, University of Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia.

 ² Department of Internal Medicine, University of the Andes, Mérida, Venezuela.

 ³ Department of Internal Medicine, Autonomous University of Bucaramanga, Colombia.

https://www.revistasoched.cl/1_2025/03.html