Prevalence of organ-specific autoantibodies in children with type 1 DM in south central region of India

Abstract

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a long-standing metabolic disease caused by autoimmune beta cell destruction leading to absence or lowered insulin production. T1DM is associated with various other autoimmune disorders, including autoimmune thyroid disease, Celiac disease, and Addison disease. Detection of these antibodies is crucial to prevent morbidity related to unrecognized disease. Indian data regarding prevalence of these antibodies in T1DM is lacking, particularly antibodies against 21 hydroxylase. Patients and Methods: Total 100 patients with T1DM were taken into the study, in all patients anti-transglutaminase (anti-tTG) IgA, anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) were done, and 21 hydroxylase anti bodies were done in 86 cases. Descriptive statistics were reported using mean, SD, numbers, and percentages. Student s t-test was used to assess the differences between the groups. Results: Fifteen cases were found to be TPOAb positive (eight had hypothyroidism, two had sub-clinical hypothyroidism, and five cases had normal thyroid function). tTGAb were positive in four cases, three were positive for 21-Hyroxylase antibody, and all had normal cortisol levels. Conclusion: Organ-specific autoimmune antibodies were elevated in T1DM when compared to general population. Screening of all these antibodies in T1DM patient should become standard of care.