Differential Diagnosis for Diabetes Mellitus
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: This is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for about 90% of all diabetes cases. It is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in a lack of insulin production. It typically presents in younger individuals but can occur at any age.
- LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults): A form of type 1 diabetes that progresses slowly and is often mistaken for type 2 diabetes due to its late onset. It is characterized by the presence of autoimmune antibodies against pancreatic islet cells.
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A condition that develops during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester, due to hormonal changes and insulin resistance. It typically resolves after pregnancy but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pancreatic Cancer: Although rare, pancreatic cancer can cause diabetes due to the destruction of pancreatic tissue, including the islets of Langerhans responsible for insulin production. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially in older adults with new-onset diabetes and significant weight loss.
- Cushing's Syndrome: A hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, which can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes. It is essential to recognize this condition due to its potential for serious complications if left untreated.
- Acromegaly: A disorder that results from excess growth hormone production, often due to a pituitary tumor, which can cause insulin resistance and diabetes. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young): A rare form of diabetes caused by genetic mutations that affect insulin production. It typically presents at a young age and is characterized by autosomal dominant inheritance.
- Wolfram Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder also known as DIDMOAD (Diabetes Insipidus, Diabetes Mellitus, Optic Atrophy, and Deafness), which includes diabetes as one of its manifestations.
- Steroid-Induced Diabetes: Diabetes that develops due to the use of glucocorticoid steroids, which can cause insulin resistance. This is more common in individuals with a predisposition to diabetes.