Special Precautions/Comments:

Method: Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). Calibration: NIBSC 97/550. EQA scheme: UK NEQAS scheme for Diabetic Markers. IQC: Commercial preparation and kit controls

Interferences: None known.

Interpretation: Negative 0-10 IU/mL. Positive >10 IU/mL.

Additional Information:

Indication: Autoimmune Diabetes Mellitus

Background Information: Type 1 diabetes is the result of T-cell mediated destruction of the beta cells in the pancreas. There are several antibodies that may be present such as GAD65 antibodies, islet cell antibodies and islet tyrosine phosphatase 2 (IA2) antibodies [2]. These antibodies can be used to predict the onset of diabetes mellitus [2]. In the assessment of first degree relatives for autoimmune diabetes, positive results in more than one of the marker antibodies (GAD, Islet cell, IA2 or insulin) can be associated with the onset of autoimmune diabetes [2]. IA2 antibodies have been shown to be a better marker of glycemic control and of a lower insulin requirement, indicating residual beta-cell function [3

References: Nice guideline 15. Type 1 diabetes: diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in adults. 2004. Pihoker C, et al. Autoantibodies in diabetes. Diabetes. 2005. 54(Suppl 2):S52-S61. [Ref 2] Zanone MM, et al. Glutamic acid decarboxylase and ICA512/IA-2 autoantibodies as disease markers and relationship to residual beta-cell function and glycaemic control in young type 1 diabetic patients. Metabolism. 2003. 52:25-29. [Ref 3] Batstra MR, Aanstoot HJ, Herbrink P. Prediction and diagnosis of type 1 diabetes using beta-cell autoantibodies. Clin. Lab. 2001. 47:497-501. [Ref 2]

See Also: Islet cell antibodies; GAD antibodies; insulin antibodies.

Telephone Gateshead Lab: 0191.4456499 Option 4, Option 1