Immunoglobulin M gene association with autoantibody reactivity and type 1 diabetes.

Several lines of evidence show that autoimmune responses evolving in type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients include the generation of multi-reactive autoantibody (AutoAb) repertoires, but their role in T1D pathogenesis remains elusive. We tested the hypothesis that variants at the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) locus are genetic determinants of AutoAbs against pancreatic antigens and contribute to T1D susceptibility. With this aim, two independent study designs were used: a case-control study and a family-based cohort comprising a total of 240 T1D patients, 172 first-degree relatives (mother and/or father), and 130 unrelated healthy controls living in Portugal.

Dermatomycosis in lower limbs of diabetic patients followed by podiatry consultation.

Background: Diabetic patients are particularly susceptible to fungal infections due to modifications that occur in their immunological system. These modifications compromise natural defences, such as skin and nails, especially from lower limbs.

Aims: Assessing the presence of dermatomycosis in lower limbs of Portuguese diabetic patients followed on Podiatry consultation.