What Is Mitochondrial Diabetes?

In addition, mitochondrial disorders can cause insulin resistance, a condition in which cells in the muscles, fat and liver don’t respond well to insulin and cannot use blood glucose for energy. To make up for it, the pancreas makes more insulin. Over time, insulin resistance causes blood sugar levels to go up.

Mitochondrial diabetes is caused by reduced function of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas and/or the emergence of insulin resistance in connection with a mitochondrial disorder.

What Causes Mitochondrial Diabetes?

Mitochondrial disorders can be inherited from one or both parents. In some cases, the disorders are caused by a spontaneous gene mutation and are not inherited. Environmental toxins can also cause mitochondrial disease.

Examples of mitochondrial disorders that can cause mitochondrial diabetes are:

• Friedreich’s ataxia
• Kearns-Sayre syndrome
• MELAS syndrome

Signs & Symptoms of Mitochondrial Diabetes

Mitochondrial diabetes symptoms are similar to those for type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes and may include:

• Increased urination
• Excessive thirst
• Increased appetite accompanied by weight loss instead of gain
• Dehydration
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Irritability and mood changes

How Is Mitochondrial Diabetes Diagnosed?

Diabetes can be the presenting symptom that leads to the diagnosis of a mitochondrial disorder, which is diagnosed with genetic testing. Other times, diabetes may develop after the genetic diagnosis of a mitochondrial disorder has already been made. More generally, diagnosis of diabetes is made based on symptoms in combination with blood and urine tests that check for abnormal blood sugar levels.

How Is Mitochondrial Diabetes Treated?

In general, the treatment of mitochondrial diabetes is similar to that of other types of diabetes, with the main goal being to maintain optimal glycemia (blood sugar levels). However, individuals with mitochondrial diabetes receive individualized monitoring and treatment that manages the condition in the specific context of their mitochondrial disease.