Type 1.5 Diabetes Is Real And Often Misdiagnosed Across Patients

Medical experts are drawing attention to a lesser-known condition commonly called Type 1.5 diabetes, officially known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA). Though not as widely recognized as Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it is increasingly being diagnosed—and often misdiagnosed—across patients worldwide.

Unlike classic Type 1 diabetes, which is typically diagnosed in childhood, Type 1.5 diabetes develops later in adulthood. Patients initially show signs similar to Type 2 diabetes, such as insulin resistance, but the underlying cause is autoimmune, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells. This combination makes diagnosis complex and delays proper treatment.

According to endocrinologists, many adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes may, in fact, have Type 1.5. Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatments, as lifestyle changes and oral medications designed for Type 2 may not be sufficient. Over time, people with Type 1.5 diabetes often require insulin therapy, just as those with Type 1 do.

Dr. Susan Patel, a diabetes specialist at Johns Hopkins University, explained: “LADA is often hidden in plain sight. Patients may look like they have Type 2 diabetes, but their body’s immune system is silently destroying insulin-producing cells.”

The condition is believed to account for up to 10% of adult diabetes cases, though awareness remains low. Because Type 1.5 develops gradually, patients often experience a “honeymoon period,” during which their bodies still produce some insulin. This can mask the seriousness of the condition, leading doctors to assume it is a mild form of Type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of Type 1.5 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision—similar to other forms of diabetes. However, one key difference is that people with LADA typically do not respond well to standard Type 2 medications such as metformin.

Special blood tests can detect autoantibodies in the body, which are markers of an autoimmune condition. These tests are critical in distinguishing LADA from Type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis is essential to ensure proper treatment and to prevent long-term complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues.

Experts emphasize the importance of raising awareness about Type 1.5 diabetes among both healthcare providers and patients. Education campaigns can help reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and ensure timely initiation of insulin therapy.

With the global rise in diabetes cases, understanding the nuances of different types is more important than ever. Proper diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life and reduce complications for millions of people living with this underrecognized form of diabetes.

As awareness grows, medical professionals hope that Type 1.5 diabetes will no longer remain overlooked, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time.