Ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus: A phenotype that hospitalists need to understand

MODY Only Monogenic? A Narrative Review of the Novel Rare and Low-Penetrant Variants

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) represents the most frequent form of monogenic diabetes mellitus (DM), currently classified in 14 distinct subtypes according to single gene mutations involved in the differentiation and function of pancreatic β-cells. A significant proportion of MODY has unknown etiology, suggesting that the genetic landscape is still to be explored. Recently, novel potentially MODY-causal genes, involved in the differentiation and function of β-cells, have been identified, such as RFX6, NKX2.2, NKX6.1, WFS1, PCBD1, MTOR, TBC1D4, CACNA1E, MNX1, AKT2, NEUROG3, EIF2AK3, GLIS3, HADH, and PTF1A. Genetic and clinical features of MODY variants remain highly heterogeneous, with no direct genotype-phenotype correlation, especially in the low-penetrant subtypes. This is a narrative review of the literature aimed at describing the current state-of-the-art of the novel likely MODY-associated variants. For a deeper understanding of MODY complexity, we also report some related controversies concerning the etiological role of some of the well-known pathological genes and MODY inheritance pattern, as well as the rare association of MODY with autoimmune diabetes. Due to the limited data available, the assessment of MODY-related genes pathogenicity remains challenging, especially in the setting of rare and low-penetrant subtypes. In consideration of the crucial importance of an accurate diagnosis, prognosis and management of MODY, more studies are warranted to further investigate its genetic landscape and the genotype-phenotype correlation, as well as the pathogenetic contribution of the nongenetic modifiers in this cohort of patients.

Tipped Over the Edge: A Case of Diabetes Ketoacidosis Precipitated by High-Dose Steroids in the Setting of a Large Peritonsillar Abscess

Peritonsillar abscess is an infection of tonsillar soft tissue which can spread into additional neck structures leading to symptoms of fever, sore throat, dysphagia, and airway compromise. We describe a case of diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with a history of uncontrolled type II diabetes mellitus admitted for a peritonsillar abscess who received intravenous steroids for management of the abscess swelling. The patient was treated with an insulin drip, hydration, and electrolyte replacement with a resolution to his anion gap and metabolic acidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs during increased gluconeogenesis leading to ketosis and metabolic acidosis which can be a life-threatening condition if not quickly recognized and treated. This case highlights the importance of monitoring and treating elevated blood glucose in acutely ill patients receiving steroid therapy.