There is still no consensus about the best strategy to screen Addison's disease (AD) in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of anti-21-hydroxilase (anti-21OH) in a multiethnic T1DM population and investigate if its presence is associated with any adrenal dysfunction or thyroid autoimmunity.
Methods: Forty individuals underwent an interview and blood was drawn for anti-thyroperoxidase (anti-TPO), anti-21OH, TSH, free T4 and cortisol measurement.
Results: Anti-21OH was found in 7.5% (n = 3), none with adrenal dysfunction. This antibody was not exclusively seen in patients with anti-TPO (+). Anti-TPO was positive in 25% and associated with higher TSH levels (p = 0.034) and older age (p = 0.009).
Conclusions: Although the frequency of anti-TPO in this sample was similar to previous studies, a higher prevalence of anti-21-OH was found. However, no coexisting adrenal dysfunction was detected, which does not support universal screening for AD in this group.