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Insulin autoimmune syndrome: the second Dutch case
M A Konijnendijk1, A A Zandbergen, F E Verheul
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ikazia Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
The Netherlands Journal of Medicine
|January 4, 2001
Summary
Insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) is a rare cause of low blood sugar. This report details the second Dutch case of IAS, diagnosed in an elderly man presenting with hypoglycaemic episodes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
Background:
- Insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) is a significant cause of spontaneous hypoglycemia, particularly noted in Japan.
- Understanding IAS is crucial for diagnosing and managing complex cases of hypoglycemia.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old man presented with collapse and disorientation.
- Hypoglycemia was confirmed during an episode, with a positive fasting test.
- Elevated postprandial insulin and C-peptide levels were observed.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited high levels of insulin and C-peptide postprandially.
- The presence of insulin antibodies confirmed the diagnosis of IAS.
- This represents the second documented case of IAS in the Netherlands.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering IAS in patients with unexplained hypoglycemia, even outside endemic regions.
- Early diagnosis and management of IAS can prevent severe hypoglycemic complications.
- Further research into the prevalence and specific triggers of IAS in diverse populations is warranted.