Organ specific autoimmune disorders in type 1 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease that results in absolute insulin deficiency due to destruction of the pancreatic beta cells. It is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases like autoimmune thyroid (AIT) disease, celiac disease (CD), Addison's disease (AD), and vitiligo. These diseases, including T1DM are associated with organ specific autoantibodies. These autoantibodies are important as diagnostic markers and detectable antibodies may precede the clinical onset of the disease. These diseases usually occur together in same patient and have shared genetic predisposition. These autoimmune diseases can severely affect clinical management of T1DM. It is possible to screen for these associated diseases by testing for relevant autoantibodies. Earlier detection of organ specific autoimmunity will enable physicians to treat these diseases at an initial stage and can prevent development of fullblown clinical condition.

Keywords

• organ specific autoimmunity
• diabetes mellitus type 1
• autoimmune thyroid disease
• celiac disease
• addison disease