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Type 1 diabetes mellitus — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyEndocrinology and growthType 1 diabetes mellitusRACP Paediatrics

A 7-year-old has three weeks of polyuria, nocturia and weight loss. He is thirsty at school and has new daytime wetting. Random capillary glucose is 19 mmol/L and blood ketones are 0.4 mmol/L. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Type 1 diabetes mellitus

Weight loss with polyuria and marked hyperglycaemia is type 1 diabetes mellitus until proven otherwise. Diabetes insipidus causes dilute polyuria without hyperglycaemia. Ketones are not high here, but the child still needs urgent diabetes assessment and education.

Reference: RACP Knowledge Guides; Australian paediatric diabetes guidance