ESPE Abstracts

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases which can sometimes be integrated into autoimmune polyendocrinopathy. The objective of this study is to describe the frequency of autoimmune diseases in children with type 1 diabetes.

Patients and Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study, involving 102 patients (54 males, 48 females) with type 1 diabetes followed in our department. All our patients had undergone a systematic search for autoimmune diseases according to the ISPAD guidelines. Hypothyroidism is screened for by measuring TSH and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) at the time of diabetes diagnosis and every two years thereafter in asymptomatic patients. Celiac disease is screened for by measuring anti-transglutaminase antibodies and by performing a duodenal biopsy at the time of diagnosis of diabetes, then 2 and 5 years later.

Results and discussion: The average age of our patients was 07 ± 2.9 years. Autoimmune diseases were found in 12 patients including 4 boys (33%) and 8 girls (67%). Hypothyroidism was the most common, found in 08 patients (8%). Celiac disease was found in 04 patients (4%). Autoimmune diseases preceded type 1 diabetes in 03 patients, and occurred within the first year after diabetes diagnosis in 6 patients.

Conclusion: The frequency of autoimmune diseases in type 1 diabetics encourages highlights the need for their screening. Early diagnosis will allow for early management of these disorders thus avoiding further complications.