[Non-autoimmune fulminant type 1 diabetes]

A new classification for diabetes mellitus based on ethiology was proposed by the Japan Diabetes Association in 1999. According to the classification, type 1 diabetes was subclassified as type 1A(autoimmune based) and type 1B(idiopathic). However, the latter is considered to be heterogeneous. Recently, a novel subtype of type 1B diabetes mellitus has been reported. In this review, a summary account of this new subtype is given. The patients in this subgroup have a non-autoimmune, fulminant disorder characterized by the absence of insulitis and of diabetes-related antibodies, a remarkably abrupt onset, and high serum pancreatic enzyme concentrations.