E12.9: Malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus without complications

Malnutrition-related diabetes mellitus without complications (E12.9) is a specific type of diabetes that arises due to under-nutrition or malnutrition, i.e. when the body is not getting adequate nutrition. Despite the name, this condition doesn't refer to typical type 1 or type 2 diabetes that are commonly known. In this case, the body struggles to utilize the sugar (glucose) in the blood due to the lack of essential nutritional components needed for insulin production and function. Symptoms of this condition may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or feeling tired and weak most of the time. Unlike other types of diabetes, this particular condition occurs when there are no other complications, such as damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, or blood vessels, related to high blood sugar levels. It's important to know that even though it's associated with malnutrition, this condition can still occur in people with normal or even excessive body weight. This condition typically requires medical management, alongside proper nutrition, to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.