Diagnosis and treatment of MODY: an updated mini review

Abstract

Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is the most common form of monogenic diabetes resulting from a single gene mutation. It is characterized by mild hyperglycemia, autosomal dominant inheritance, early onset of diabetes (<25 years), insulin resistance, and preservation of endogenous insulin secretion. Currently, 14 MODY subtypes have been identified, with differences in incidence, clinical features, diabetes severity and related complications, and treatment response. This type of diabetes is mostly misdiagnosed as either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus because it is difficult to differentiate between these forms of diabetes due to clinical similarities, the high cost of genetic testing, and lack of awareness. As a result, thousands of patients are not receiving appropriate treatment. Accurate diagnosis would allow for more effective therapeutic management and treatment strategies that are distinct from those used for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This review serves to explore MODY subtypes, diagnosis, and treatment, and increase awareness of MODY incidence.