STUDY OF THE PREVALENCE OF ISLET CELL ANTIBODIES (ICA) IN PATIENTS WITH INSULIN DEPENDENT DIABETES MELLITUS AND THEIR RELATIVES

Abstract

Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (type I, IDDM) is now known to be a consequent of an autoimmune reaction that selectively damage pancreatic beta-cells. As a part of the autoimmune process, a spectrum of autoantibodies directed against islet antigens are found in blood. Among these are islet cell antibodies (ICA). ICAs, are marker of islet autoimmunity and ongoing beta cell destruction.

IDDM can occur at any age. Yet, the incidence rate seems to peak twice once close to puberty and again after the age of 40.

Evidences have accumulated that, despite the acute clinical onset, type I diabetes is preceded by a long asymptomatic prodromal period during which the insulin- producing cells are gradually destroyed over several years. It has been shown that during this preclinical period, islet cell antibodies are found.

Islet cell antibodies were detected both in isulin dependent diabetic patients and in first degree relatives of insulin-dependent diabetic patients. First degree relatives of insulin- dependent diabetic patients comprise the segment of human population who are at a high risk of developing IDDM.