A Case of Possible SARS-COV-2 Induced Beta-Cell Failure

Abstract

Background: There are several known viral triggers of ketosis-prone diabetes, including SARS-1 and HHV-81,2. SARS-COV-2 can bind ACE-2 receptors on the beta-cell causing destruction and acute impairment of insulin secretion3. There is accruing evidence to suggest that COVID-19 infection can worsen preexisting diabetes or induce new disease4. Clinical Case: A 40-year-old Hispanic male presented to the ER complaining of fatigue, polyuria, and polydipsia. A screening COVID-19 PCR was positive but he denied URI symptoms. His admission labs were notable for hyperglycemia (434 mg/dL; n 71–99), metabolic acidosis (pH 7.1 [n 7.35–7.45]; HCO3 3 mmoL/L [n 21–32]), increased anion gap (27 mmoL/L; n < 12) and elevated HbA1c (7.9%; n < 5.7%). The patient’s fructosamine was also high (464 umol/L; n 200–285) and discordant from his HbA1c. There was no evidence of pancreatitis, lactic acidosis, renal impairment or hepatic dysfunction. The patient had no known medical problems, did not drink alcohol to excess, and reported good access to nutrition. He had a strong family history of T2DM, but his BMI (23.3 kg/m2) and lipid panel were normal. The DKA was managed in the medical ICU using fluids and IV insulin per protocol. The patient required 180 units of IV insulin/24-hours (2.5 units/kg/day) to maintain blood glucose 180–250 mg/dL. After 48-hours of IV insulin, he was transitioned to subcutaneous insulin and prescribed multiple daily injections at discharge. There were concerns about possible T1DM and/or glucose toxicity leading to further diagnostics. His GAD-65 (<5 [IU]/mL; n 0–5 [IU]/mL) and IA-2 (<5.4 U/mL; n <5.4 U/mL) antibodies were negative but his c-peptide was suppressed (0.64 ng/mL; n 0.8–3.85). The patient was reevaluated at three months post-discharge. His glycemic control and insulin requirements had improved but repeat c-peptide level was undetectable. He was thought to have beta-cell failure and referred to a diabetologist. Conclusion: This is a case of absolute insulin deficiency persisting for at least three months most likely attributable to acute COVID-19 infection.