Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus

Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus (NDM) is a rare form of diabetes that appears in the first six months of life. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is caused by the immune system attacking insulin-producing cells, NDM is a monogenic condition — meaning it is caused by a change in a single gene that affects how the pancreas produces insulin.

NDM is very rare, affecting approximately one in 100,000 to 500,000 newborns. Because it appears so early in life, it can sometimes be mistaken for type 1 diabetes — but the two conditions are quite different in their cause and management.

Types of Neonatal Diabetes

There are two main types of NDM:

• Transient NDM (TNDM) — This type resolves on its own during infancy, though it may return later in life, sometimes in adolescence or adulthood.
• Permanent NDM (PNDM) — This type is lifelong and requires ongoing treatment.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of NDM in newborns can include excessive thirst, frequent urination, dehydration, poor weight gain, and slow growth. In more severe cases, the body may produce excess acid, leading to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which requires urgent medical attention.

Management

With the right diagnosis and treatment, children with NDM can grow and develop well. Some children with NDM respond to sulfonylurea tablets rather than insulin injections — making genetic testing an important part of diagnosis and care planning.

How I Can Help

If your child or a family member has been diagnosed with neonatal diabetes, I can provide education and support to help you understand the condition and feel confident in day-to-day management. Please get in touch or book a telehealth consultation.