Differential Diagnosis for Consistently Elevated Glucose Levels
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diabetes Mellitus Type 2: This is the most common cause of consistently elevated glucose levels, especially in adults. It is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, leading to hyperglycemia.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Diabetes Mellitus Type 1: Although less common than Type 2, Type 1 diabetes can also present with consistently elevated glucose levels, especially in younger patients or those with a family history of the disease.
- Gestational Diabetes: In pregnant women, gestational diabetes can cause elevated glucose levels due to insulin resistance and hormonal changes.
- Steroid-Induced Hyperglycemia: Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia.
- Pancreatic Insufficiency: Conditions such as pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery can impair insulin production, leading to elevated glucose levels.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cushing's Syndrome: A rare endocrine disorder caused by excess cortisol production, which can lead to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Missing this diagnosis can have serious consequences, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodic hyperglycemia due to excess catecholamine production. Missing this diagnosis can be life-threatening due to the risk of hypertensive crises.
- Acromegaly: A rare endocrine disorder caused by excess growth hormone production, which can lead to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Missing this diagnosis can have serious consequences, including cardiovascular disease and joint problems.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hemochromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause pancreatic damage and impaired insulin production, leading to hyperglycemia.
- Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes: A rare condition that can cause pancreatic insufficiency and hyperglycemia in patients with cystic fibrosis.
- Wolfram Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that can cause pancreatic damage and impaired insulin production, leading to hyperglycemia and other systemic complications.