Introduction

This case represents the importance of diabetes control in managing and curing infections, along with medical therapy, nutrition, patient education, and continuous monitoring.

Background: Severe Hyperglycaemia and Infection Challenges

A 20-year-old girl presented with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes with an HbA1c of 12.6%, FBS: 265 mg/dL, and PLBS: 338 mg/dL. She was also recently diagnosed with pulmonary Koch’s tuberculosis (TB) and was experiencing multiple symptoms, including fever, active infection, and significant weight loss.
She required a structured, sustainable, and scientifically guided management plan.

Our Approach

We developed an integrated diabetes management program, which included:

  • Individualised insulin therapy, essential in infection-related diabetes cases like tuberculosis, where strict glycaemic control is crucial

  • Twice-daily insulin initiation, along with oral antidiabetic medications

  • Medical nutrition therapy, with emphasis on adequate protein intake

  • A structured self-blood glucose monitoring (SMBG) regimen

This comprehensive approach aimed to achieve rapid glycaemic control while supporting infection recovery.

Recovery and Outcome

Within just 1 month, the patient achieved significant improvement:

  • FBS reduced from 265 mg/dL to 122 mg/dL

  • PLBS reduced from 338 mg/dL to 137 mg/dL

  • Infective symptoms such as cold, cough, and fever completely subsided

She continued regular self-monitoring and follow-ups. After 3 months, her HbA1c reduced from 12.6% to 7.7%, contributing to better control of the tuberculosis infection.
She will continue anti-tuberculosis treatment for a total duration of 9 months.

Doctor’s Perspective

This case reinforces the importance of multidisciplinary diabetes care in infection-related conditions, such as tuberculosis or urinary tract infections. Early insulin initiation, strict glycaemic control, and adequate nutritional support are essential for improving immunity and treatment outcomes.

At Rohit Diabetes Centre, such complex cases are managed through comprehensive diabetes care led by an experienced diabetologist.

Key Learnings

  • Insulin helps improve immunity by achieving effective glycaemic control

  • It supports appetite improvement in patients suffering from infections

  • Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining adequate protein intake, which is vital for both infection recovery and diabetes control

Achieving timely diabetes control is critical for preventing diabetes-related complications, especially during long-term infections.

 

Our Message

Comprehensive and structured diabetes care significantly improves outcomes in long-term infections like tuberculosis. With strict monitoring, nutritional support, and continuous medical guidance, even severe cases can be brought under effective control.

If you or a family member is struggling with uncontrolled diabetes during illness, it is advisable to book an appointment for expert evaluation.