Diagnostic dilemma: A teen's classic diabetes symptoms didn't improve with treatment — revealing she also had a much rarer syndrome
By Nicoletta Lanese
Published on April 22, 2026.
A teenage girl from whom her classic diabetes symptoms didn't improve with treatment, leading to the discovery of a rare autoimmune syndrome. The patient's blood sugar was very high, with a normal blood sugar range for someone without diabetes being between 70 and 90 mg/dL. She also experienced unusual thirst, excessive urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Tests revealed that she had antibodies against the adrenal glands, indicating an autoimmune response, and high levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). These symptoms were confirmed by both type 1 diabetes and Addison's disease, which together affect about 20% of the population. The treatment was successful, with the patient gaining weight within two months and improving her health. However, she remains receiving lifelong treatment due to the diagnosis of two autoimmune disorders.
Related Articles
If You Struggle With Meditation, Try This More Approachable Mindfulness Exercise Instead
If you struggle with meditation, consider breathing exercises like this to reduce stress, improve attention span, and possibly prevent dementia, as part of mental health strategies.
See the moon shining in the daytime sky this week: Here's where to look
The first quarter moon will be visible in the daytime sky near Jupiter, highlighting the importance of close-up viewing to enhance astronomical quality.
Spectacular photos of the 2026 Lyrid meteor shower captured from Earth and space
The 2026 Lyrid meteor shower produced a spectacular display as Earth passed through comet Thatcher's debris, with shooting stars across the sky in dramatic fashion.