Many Who Have Type 2 Diabetes May Be Suffering From a Different Disease

Type 2 diabetes is often the first diagnosis when adults present with high blood sugar, but for some individuals, their condition may not be what it seems. Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA) is a form of diabetes that is frequently misdiagnosed as Type 2. Despite sharing similarities with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, LADA is an autoimmune disorder that progresses differently, often requiring insulin therapy sooner than expected. This misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment plans and worsening symptoms, making it critical to recognize the signs of LADA early.

The Overlap Between Diabetes Types

Many people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes might actually have a lesser-known condition called latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA). LADA shares characteristics with both Type 1 and Type 2, which can lead to misdiagnosis. This autoimmune condition, sometimes referred to as Type 1.5 diabetes, progresses slowly, making it difficult to differentiate from Type 2 in its early stages.¹

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What Exactly is LADA?

LADA is an autoimmune disorder, where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, much like Type 1 diabetes. However, unlike Type 1, LADA’s onset is slower, often leading doctors to initially misdiagnose it as Type 2. Patients with LADA may not need insulin for the first several months after diagnosis, further blurring the lines between diabetes types.²

Why the Confusion?

Physicians often misdiagnose LADA as Type 2 diabetes because the symptoms overlap. Both conditions typically develop in adulthood and present with similar issues such as high blood sugar, excessive thirst, and frequent urination. However, LADA patients usually don’t respond well to oral Type 2 diabetes medications in the long run.³

Symptoms that Set LADA Apart

While LADA may look like Type 2 at first, patients often begin to lose their ability to produce insulin more quickly than Type 2 diabetics. Over time, they become insulin-dependent, much like those with Type 1 diabetes. Testing for specific antibodies can help confirm a LADA diagnosis, but many doctors don’t run these tests upfront.

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A Race Against Time

One of the biggest challenges with LADA is the delay in receiving the right treatment. Those misdiagnosed with Type 2 may go years without the proper care. For example, Phyllisa Deroze, who initially received a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, spent eight years managing the wrong condition before finally being diagnosed with LADA.

The Importance of Antibody Testing

To confirm a diagnosis of LADA, doctors can test for antibodies that attack the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Unfortunately, these tests aren’t routine, leaving many patients in the dark about their true condition. However, getting tested early is crucial as it determines the course of treatment, often involving insulin therapy.

LADA and Racial Disparities

Some patients believe their misdiagnosis is tied to racial bias. Several Black women with LADA have reported being misdiagnosed with Type 2 diabetes due to stereotypes about weight and race. Proper diagnosis is essential for patients to receive the right care and tools, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors.

Treating LADA Properly

While early stages of LADA can be managed similarly to Type 2 diabetes with diet, exercise, and oral medications, most patients will eventually need insulin. Misdiagnosis can delay this necessary treatment, increasing the risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which can be life-threatening.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes but are struggling with medication management, ask your doctor about getting tested for LADA. Especially if you are younger, not overweight, or have a family history of autoimmune diseases, it’s essential to rule out LADA as the cause. Misdiagnosis can lead to inadequate treatment and serious health complications. Being aware of LADA as a possibility is the first step in getting the right diagnosis.

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