A Case of Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes Associated with Pregnancy

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by insulin deficiency due to destruction of pancreatic β-cells. A novel subtype of type 1B which is rapidly developed without any evidence of autoimmunity has been recently proposed as fulminant type I diabetes. In female patients of child-bearing age, the onset of fulminant type 1 diabetes occurred frequently during pregnancy or after delivery in Japan, however, there was no report about fulminant type 1 diabetes associated with pregnancy in Korea. We report a case of fulminant type 1 diabetes associated with pregnancy. A 28-year-old woman suffering from excessive thirst with vomiting and general weakness after four days from normal spontaneous vaginal delivery presented to our hospital. Laboratory examination revealed a high blood glucose level and evidence of diabetic ketoacidosis, butHbA1c level was normal. These findings suggested a very recent onset of diabetes mellitus. Serum C-peptide level was very low level. Antibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) was weakly positive. After fluid and insulin based management, patient successfully recovered without any serious complication. (J Kor Diabetes Assoc 31:180~183, 2007)