anti GAD & islet-cell antibodies

[ianmacleod]

Hi, I was diagnosed diabetic in April, but they are not sure yet whether I am type 1 or 2.
I lost 1/2 stone in March during an extemely stressful period at work. I have lost 1 stone since October 2011. I am 46 yrs old. I am now underweight, whereas prior to October 2011 my BMI was spot on, and had been for many years.
I live in Hampshire, England.
I had a blood test for anti-GAD and ICA on 11th May 2012, but have yet to receive the results.
Obviously, I am keen to have a definite diagnosis of type 1 or 2, as I feel that the structured training and dietician appointments are dependent on the outcome.
My GP and DSN have both said that the blood test is specialised and can take a while.
Does anyone know how long this blood test takes to obtain a result and why?

Thanks

Ian

 

[Northerner]

Hi Ian, welcome to the forum 🙂 I haven't had the tests so can't answer your question, but hopefully it will not take long to get the results so you can get the appropriate treatment. From what you say, you sound very much like I was when I was diagnosed aged 49. What other symptoms do you have besides the weight loss? Have you been put on any medication? I lost 1.5 stones in the 18 months prior to diagnosis then caught a virus which dropped my weight by a further 17 pounds in 4 days and led to my diagnosis.

Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, hopefully someone will be along soon to answer your question about the tests.

 

[ianmacleod]

Hi Northerner
My other symptoms were : I woke at night, regularly to pass urine. Have occasional abdominal pain.
I am taking 1000mg metformin and 120 mg gliclazide each day.
I will be having an ultrasound on my pancreas later this month.

 

[Mark T]

Welcome to the forum Ian 🙂

When I had my test for anti-GAD and ICA I was told that it took 2 weeks to get results. It was actually about 16 days when I emailed my DSN for the results.

 

[Amethyst]

I had GAD and c-peptide in early May and am still waiting for the results.