Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT4006

Introduction: ype 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease with a constantly increasing incidence worldwide, including in children. Its early and effective management is essential to avoid acute complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and long-term complications. In our region, few studies have been conducted to analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pediatric T1D, hence the need for a retrospective study to better understand the factors influencing the onset and evolution of this disease in children. The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological, clinical, biological, and immunological characteristics of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in children.

Patients and Methods: A retrospective study of T1D cases in children under 14 years old, hospitalized at CHU Hédi Chaker, Sfax, between January 2018 and December 2022.

Results: We collected 207 cases with an average hospital incidence of 41.4 children per year. The mean age of the children was 7.35 ± 3.74 years, with 82 children under 6 years old and 125 between 6 and 14 years old. A winter predominance was observed (31.4%). Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at presentation was noted in 58.5% of cases, more frequently in children under 6 years old (P = 0.02); it was severe in 45.2% of cases. The mean blood glucose was 23.63 ± 8.23 mmol/l. Autoantibodies were positive in 88% of children, mainly anti-GAD (71.9%). After a mean follow-up of 2.25 ± 1.5 years, 35.7% of children were readmitted, primarily for DKA (12.6%), severe hypoglycemia (10.6%), and diabetes imbalance (23.2%). A satisfactory metabolic control was observed in 17.6% of cases.

Conclusion: The incidence of pediatric T1D is increasing, particularly in young children. Despite awareness programs and diagnostic advances, in our region, inaugural DKA remains common, highlighting the need to strengthen prevention and early screening.