What Is MODY? Know About This Rare Form Of Diabetes Amongst Youngsters

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterised by high blood sugar levels which can result in long term complications related to the heart, brain, kidney, eyes and feet, if left uncontrolled. There are various types of diabetes that can affect individuals, the most common is type-2 Diabetes. Type-1 which is also known as juvenile diabetes is mainly genetic. Type-2 diabetes is an outcome of unhealthy diet and lifestyle and various other environmental factors play a role.

Diabetes can be a result of multiple factors. In type-1 diabetes, the beta cells of pancreas are extensively damaged and hence unable to produce insulin. This type of diabetes occurs typically in the first decade of life or early second decade of life. Such patients need insulin injections to maintain healthy blood sugars. While in type-2 diabetes, the beta cells of Pancreas are functioning, but not able to produce enough insulin to meet the demands of the body. This could be either due to a genetic problem, or multiple defects in various organ systems of the body. One such subtype of type-2 Diabetes is what is called as MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young).

What is MODY? Expert tells

MODY is typically a monogenic form of diabetes and is a result of mutations or changes in a single gene. It accounts for 1-4 % of all diabetes case. This is a rare form of diabetes, and the gene mutation is inherited from one or both parents. Sometimes the mutation develops spontaneously, meaning that the mutation is not carried by either of the parents. Mutations are abnormalities or defects in the genetic material, passed on by one generation to next, which affect the normal functioning of the genes, resulting in reduced production of hormones and peptides, which are vital to sustain normal bodily functions. In MODY, the mutations result in decreased production of Insulin, as the genes providing instructions for making proteins within the cells do not function properly.

It is important to recognise and diagnose MODY, as the behaviour of this type is different from the most common type-2 diabetes. The onset of MODY is usually during adolescence or early adulthood. The clinical features depend on the gene mutation a person has. Symptoms may be mild to moderate, and some patients will not develop any long-term complications. However, some types of MODY require specific treatment with insulin. Typically, family history of diabetes in multiple successive generations will be present. The diagnosis of MODY can be confirmed by genetic testing. An endocrinologist can guide you to get the appropriate genetic testing. A proper diagnosis means better long-term treatment planning as well as mapping the prognosis.

Also read: Diabetes Signs And Symptoms: Take A Note Of These 5 Skin Changes That May Indicate Diabetes

Restrictions similar to type-2 diabetes apply for these patients. Dietary modification with right balance of carbohydrates, proteins and fat with right mix of greens and dairy products would be suggested for these patients. Lifestyle modification will be essential, although considering that problem is more of genetic defect it may have limited implications. Home management is as for most type-2 Diabetes patients, but close monitoring for those on multiple tablets and insulin injections is needed to achieve better control of sugars.

(Dr. Sudhindra Kulkarni, Consultant Endocrinologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund)

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.