What types (classifications) of MODY are known?
• HNF1 – alpha. This is the gene found to be responsible for 70% of cases of MODY. It causes diabetes by lowering the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas. In childhood sufficient insulin is produced, but the amount of insulin reduces as the person gets older. The diabetes often develops in adolescence or early twenties, but may not be diagnosed until later in life. Good control of blood glucose and cholesterol levels are important in this type of MODY as the small blood vessels can be damaged, causing damage to eyes and kidneys. The large blood vessels may also become damaged, resulting in coronary heart disease. Those with HNF1alpha MODY are particularly sensitive to a group of tablets called sulphonylureas. They can often be well controlled on very small doses of these tablets for many years, although may well progress to needing insulin treatment eventually. Otherwise management recommendations are the same as for others with diabetes – keeping physically active and maintaini
