Ordering the Autoimmune Diabetes, In-Depth | Mary Shomon Panel
Ordering the Autoimmune Diabetes, In-Depth | Mary Shomon Panel helps identify markers linked to autoimmune diabetes, including type 1 and latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). This panel checks for blood sugar, long-term glucose control, insulin production, and specific antibodies that can signal an autoimmune response against insulin-producing cells. Interestingly, some people with autoimmune diabetes may not show symptoms until their blood sugar is already high, making early detection through this panel especially useful.
When ordering this panel, you gain access to several specific benefits:
- Detects early signs of autoimmune diabetes before symptoms appear
- Measures both current and long-term blood sugar levels for a complete picture
- Assesses insulin production with C-peptide to help guide treatment decisions
- Identifies the presence of GAD antibodies, which are linked to autoimmune attacks on the pancreas
- Supports more accurate diagnosis between type 1, type 2, and LADA diabetes
Who Should Consider Comprehensive Autoimmune Diabetes Screening
People who have a family history of type 1 diabetes, unexplained changes in blood sugar, or symptoms like increased thirst and frequent urination may benefit from this panel. For example, someone who has been managing type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise but suddenly needs more medication could be experiencing an autoimmune process that this test can help uncover.
Ordering this panel may also be helpful in these situations:
- Someone with a close relative diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
- People who have had gestational diabetes and now have rising blood sugar
- Those with other autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid disease
- People experiencing unexplained weight loss along with high blood sugar
- Someone with fluctuating blood sugar despite following a consistent meal plan, which can sometimes be linked to autoimmune activity
This panel is recommended for those who want to clarify the cause of their blood sugar changes, as it can help distinguish between different types of diabetes and guide the next steps in care. Delaying this test could mean missing the window to start the most effective treatment, which may help prevent further loss of insulin-producing cells.
Preparing for Your Autoimmune Diabetes Antibody and Blood Sugar Panel
Fasting for at least 8 hours is required before collecting your blood sample for this panel. Always follow any specific instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Autoimmune Diabetes, In-Depth | Mary Shomon Panel
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Measures | Low and High Levels of This Marker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting Glucose | 70-99 | Fasting glucose checks the amount of sugar in your blood after not eating for at least 8 hours. It helps spot early changes in blood sugar control. |
High levels mean your body is not processing sugar well, which can point to diabetes or prediabetes.
Low levels mean your blood sugar is dropping too much, which can be caused by too much insulin or not eating enough. |
| Hemoglobin A1C | 4.0-5.6 | Hemoglobin A1C shows your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. It helps track long-term blood sugar control and diabetes risk. |
High levels mean your blood sugar has been high for several weeks or months, which can increase the risk of diabetes complications.
Low levels mean your blood sugar has been lower than normal, which can sometimes happen with frequent low blood sugar episodes. |
| C-Peptide | 0.8-3.1 | C-peptide measures how much insulin your body is making. It helps show if your pancreas is still producing insulin or if it is being attacked by the immune system. |
High levels mean your body is making extra insulin, which can happen in insulin resistance or early type 2 diabetes.
Low levels mean your pancreas is not making enough insulin, which is common in type 1 diabetes or advanced autoimmune diabetes. |
| Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) Antibodies | 0-5 | GAD antibodies are proteins made by the immune system that attack insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This test helps spot autoimmune diabetes, including LADA and type 1 diabetes. |
High levels mean your immune system is attacking the pancreas, which is linked to autoimmune diabetes.
Low levels mean there is little or no immune attack on the pancreas, which is less likely to be autoimmune diabetes. |
Reference ranges may change slightly over time as labs update their standards and testing methods.
Autoimmune Diabetes, In-Depth | Mary Shomon Panel FAQ
Is there Autoimmune Diabetes, In-Depth | Mary Shomon Panel testing near me?
This is a test kit that you can collect locally, and you can check the draw location link at the top of the page for nearby options. Since autoimmune diabetes can develop without clear warning signs, having a convenient collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and track changes in your blood sugar or antibody levels.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand what your numbers mean and what steps to take next.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for this panel includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this panel can help you find out if your symptoms are related to autoimmune diabetes, which can help you get the right treatment sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you have changes in symptoms or treatment, to monitor for shifts in blood sugar or antibody levels that may affect your care.
How accurate is the test?
This panel uses enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and chemiluminescent immunoassay methods, with specificity and sensitivity both above 98% for GAD antibodies and over 97% for the other markers. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
None.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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