Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in the Adult, LADA has been investigated less than “classical”
type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the criteria for and the relevance of a LADA diagnosis has been challenged.
Despite the absence of a genetic background that is exclusive to LADA, this form of diabetes
displays phenotypic characteristics that distinguish it from other forms of diabetes. LADA is heterogeneous
in terms of the impact of autoimmunity and lifestyle factors, something that poses problems as to
therapy and follow-up perhaps particularly in those with marginal positivity. Yet, there appears to be
clear clinical utility in classifying individuals as LADA.