Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT3050

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), once considered a disease primarily affecting adults, is now increasingly diagnosed in children and adolescents. This shift is largely attributed to rising rates of obesity, poor dietary habits, and reduced physical activity among younger populations. In the United States and other developed countries the prevalence of T2DM in teenagers has risen sharply in recent years, prompting a need for greater awareness and early intervention. An increase in T2DM cases is also observed in Armenia, not only among adolescents in late but also in early puberty.

Case Description: This case report describes a 12-year-old boy who presented with excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and a 5 kg weight loss over the past month. His home blood glucose levels were consistently elevated, with one reading as high as 29 mmol/l. On clinical examination, he was found to have obesity (BMI: 36.9 kg/m²), height = 176.5sm, height SDS= +1.42, acanthosis nigricans, and breasts enlargement, all indicative of insulin resistance Tanner 3 stage Family history was positive for T2DM, which further supported the diagnosis. Laboratory findings confirmed the diagnosis of T2DM: Fasting glucose: 28.7 mmol/l HbA1C: 11.0% C-peptide: 2.6 ng/mL Ketones: 3+ (indicating ketosis) Autoantibodies: Anti-GAD, IgG – 46.6 (>N) Anti-IA-2- 180.59 (>N) Anti-insulin, IgG – 10.13 (N) The patient’s treatment regimen included diet therapy (25 kcal/kg/day), insulin therapy (NovoRapid and Levemir), Metformin, and blood glucose monitoring 5-7 times per day. In addition, physical activity was strongly encouraged to enhance metabolic control.

Conclusions: This case underscores the rising incidence of T2DM in adolescents, a trend that calls for heightened awareness among healthcare providers and families. Early diagnosis and intervention, including lifestyle changes and pharmacological treatment, are essential to managing T2DM in teenagers and preventing long-term complications. Given the increasing prevalence of the condition in this age group, it is critical to recognize the early signs and implement appropriate strategies to address this growing public health issue.