Type 2 diabetes in pediatrics

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) in adolescents has become an increasing health concern throughout the world and its prevention and screening should be implemented in pediatric care. As clinical features at presentation, in some cases can be similar to type 1 diabetes and family history can be in favor of a monogenic form of diabetes, it is pivotal for physicians to be aware of youth-onset T2D specificities to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

We conducted the first search in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, using different keywords and their compositions. The keywords used, also called "mesh" (MEdical Subject Headings) on PubMed, are the following: "type 2 diabetes" AND ("child*" OR "pediatr*" OR "adolesce*") AND ("epidem*" OR "diagnos*" OR "treat*" OR "complication" OR "comorbidit*"). International review, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, randomized control trials and case reports published between May 2018 and February 2021 were considered, to identify publications that deal with the topic. No restrictions were applied regarding the published paper's language.

The global increase of overweight and obesity can complicate the diagnostic process and makes it essential to apply a systematic approach to each new diagnosis. Microvascular complications may be present at the time of diagnosis and chronic complications are frequent and need to be screened regularly. Regular screening of comorbidities should also be performed. Childhood T2D should be followed up by pediatric diabetes units to avoid diagnostic errors and delay in care.

A multidisciplinary approach, by an experienced team, is pivotal to provide treatment options targeting the unique needs of pediatric patients. Treatment programs must include the whole family and address all the aspects of the care (lifestyle, pharmacological therapy, psychological aspects, complications and comorbidities). An organized process of transition to adult care is essential.