GAD results

Hi all,

I had a quick question regarding GAD antibody results. I've been under investigation for type since December when I was referred to the diabetic clinic following two suspected DKAs and after an unsuccessful struggle to regain control of my BG levels (I also started on insulin in Dec). Someone lost my first set of blood results but I've now just got the results of my GAD antibody test which is 8.7 u/ml, which is apparently 'above the reference level'. My diabetic consultant says in the letter that he will discuss this further with me at my next appointment, which is in May. My DSN called me a few days ago to say she had seen the results and that she thought it was enough to diagnose either type 1 or 1.5 / LADA. Personally if I'm not type 2, then my money is on LADA.

I know people here can't diagnose, but based on people's experience is 8.7 a significant result likely to indicate 1 or 1.5 or possibly just inconclusive? I've had a look around the net and can't really find much to go on that's definitive. I'm happy on the insulin and accept that this is probably now a lifelong treatment for me but would really like some clarity on type for my own peace of mind I guess. Any views / similar experiences?

Russ

Thanks all for those comments and the link.

I contacted my diabetic consultant and have now met him to discuss my results, which was useful rather than waiting until May! His view was that the presence of anti-GAD antibodies and other results put me clearly in the type 1 or 1.5 box, not type 2.

As a result, the insulin treatment I began in December 2010 will now be a lifelong one. I had hoped that I might be able to try other options, having only been on metformin previously, but that's not going to happen. I'm okay with that because it clearly works and if I'm honest the reality of the injections is nowhere near as bad as the thought of it was. (Yes, yes, I know it's only been a few months and not 20+ years. I'll see what I think about it then!)

Broadly, I'm happy to get some clarity on prognosis and treatment. Consultant was much better face to face than trying to get info via phone or letter.