Monogenic diabetes
Monogenic diabetes is a rare form of diabetes caused by a change (mutation) in a single gene. This is different from type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Because it is genetic, monogenic diabetes often runs in families. You might have been diagnosed with it at a young age, or you may have a strong family history of diabetes across several generations.
The most common form of monogenic diabetes is known as maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY), but there are other types, including neonatal diabetes (diabetes diagnosed in the first 6 months of life).
Managing monogenic diabetes
Treatment depends on exactly which gene is affected. Some people can manage their condition with diet alone, some may need tablets (such as sulphonylureas), and others may need insulin. Getting the correct genetic diagnosis is important because it ensures you are on the right treatment.
Specialist support in Leeds
In Leeds, monogenic diabetes is managed by the specialist diabetes team at Leeds Teaching Hospitals. The Leeds Community Diabetes Service does not provide specialist management for this condition.
