Abnormal glucose tolerance is a frequent late complication of cystic
fibrosis (CF), but the prevalence of CF-related diabetes mellitus (CFRD)
in children less than 10 y old is less than 2%. The youngest child with
CFRD reported to date was 6 mo of age. Insulinopenia is the primary
cause of abnormal glucose tolerance/CFRD, but it is unknown whether it
may begin in the neonatal period. We describe a case of a neonate with
CF who presented with hyperglycaemia in the diabetic range and marked
insulinopenia. Insulinopenia and impaired glucose tolerance were
permanent findings at 6 and 15 mo of age.
Conclusion: This case suggests that abnormal glucose tolerance/diabetes
may occur much earlier in the course of CF, even during neonatal age.
Careful follow-up and further studies in CF infants could reveal that
the real incidence of glucose intolerance and diabetes in this age group
has been underestimated