B cells produce autoantibodies against pancreatic islet cells months and even up to years before the onset of clinically relevant symptoms of autoimmune type 1 diabetes (autoimmune T1D), providing an opportunity for early detection and potential prevention of autoimmune T1D onset.1-2 These type 1 diabetes (T1D) autoantibodies serve as important biomarkers for the development and progression of autoimmune T1D.1
The progression of autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) is gradual, often detectable months or even years before symptoms arise.1–3 Through proactive screening, we can identify the condition well in advance.3 Meet our ambassadors living with autoimmune T1D and discover the risk factors to look out for when considering who to screen.
Individuals living with other associated autoimmune diseases like celiac disease or autoimmune thyroid disease, are at an increased risk of developing autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) and should be appropriately screened.1-6
Autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a progressive disease in which the decline in beta cell function usually begins months or sometimes years before clinical symptoms are observed.1–3 You can identify such patients at risk of developing autoimmune T1D before clinical symptoms are noticed by you or your patient.3
Anti-islet autoantibodies that target proteins associated with beta-cells serve as biomarkers of autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) development.1 The number of detectable autoantibodies through screening correlates with risk of developing autoimmune T1D.2 Assays for detecting autoimmune T1D have shown high sensitivity and specificity.3,4
Individuals who screen positive for ≥1 autoimmune islet cell antibodies need periodic medical monitoring, which includes regular assessments of blood glucose and HbA1c levels. You can also educate them about symptoms of diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and provide psychosocial support to prepare them for a possible clinical diagnosis for type 1 diabetes (T1D).1
Delay in screening for autoimmune type 1 diabetes (T1D) can increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis—a critical complication that is potentially life-threatening and may result in long-term poor glycemic control and neurological complications.1,2 By identifying autoimmune T1D early, you can significantly lower the risk of DKA at diagnosis.3,4