In a groundbreaking achievement, a multidisciplinary team at Medicover Hospital, Navi Mumbai successfully treated a premature baby born at just 30 weeks with a rare form of neonatal diabetes. Led by Dr. Tanmesh Kumar Sahu, Consultant Neonatologist and NICU In-Charge, and Dr. Rachana Keshwani, Consultant Pediatric Endocrinologist, the team not only stabilized the critically ill newborn but also set a new standard for advanced neonatal care in the region.
A Joyful Expectation Turns into a Medical Emergency
Shamita and Raj Sinha (names changed), a young couple from Navi Mumbai, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child. However, their joy quickly turned into concern when complications arose during the third trimester. Due to leaking amniotic fluid and the mother’s history of gestational diabetes, doctors performed an emergency C-section at 30 weeks. The baby, weighing just 1.1 kg, suffered from respiratory distress and was immediately transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
NICU Team Provides Critical Life Support
Dr. Tanmesh Kumar Sahu explained, “Premature babies at 30 weeks often suffer from immature lungs and develop respiratory distress syndrome. In this case, we managed the baby initially with a non-invasive ventilation mode, followed by CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). We also initiated total parenteral nutrition, and later transitioned to exclusive mother’s milk.” During routine monitoring, the NICU team noticed an unusual finding—persistently high blood sugar levels around 300 mg/dL, which is atypical, especially in infants of diabetic mothers who usually experience low sugar (hypoglycemia). Despite insulin infusions, the sugar levels remained uncontrolled.
Doctors Suspect a Rare Genetic Condition
As per the press release, based on clinical indicators, Dr. Sahu and his team suspected neonatal diabetes, likely caused by mutations in the KCNJ11 and ABCC8 genes. “These gene mutations disrupt insulin secretion and can lead to either permanent or transient diabetes in newborns,” Dr. Sahu noted. The team counseled the parents and immediately arranged for genetic testing. Blood samples were sent to Exeter Medical School in the UK, a global leader in genetic diagnosis for neonatal diabetes. In the meantime, the baby’s feeds were gradually increased by day 7, but sugar levels continued to rise, peaking at 400 mg/dL.
Stabilizing Blood Sugar and Confirming the Diagnosis
After several trials, the team found NPH insulin more effective in stabilizing the newborn’s blood glucose levels. The genetic test results confirmed the suspected mutations. Following this, the medical team transitioned the baby to an oral anti-diabetic medication, Glibenclamide. This significantly improved the baby’s condition.
A Triumph in Neonatal Medicine
After 25 days of intensive care, the medical team discharged the baby in stable condition. He was feeding well, gaining weight, and reaching developmental milestones appropriate for his age. Before discharge, the NICU team trained the parents on sugar monitoring and home insulin administration, ensuring a smooth transition to home care. “This rare diagnosis and its successful management mark a milestone in our hospital’s neonatal care journey,” said Dr. Tanmesh Sahu. “Early suspicion, timely genetic testing, and personalized treatment helped us save a life and empower the family to confidently manage care at home.”
A Rare Condition, Expertly Handled
“Neonatal diabetes is extremely rare, and diagnosing it in a premature infant adds another layer of complexity,” emphasized Dr. Rachana Keshwani. “Our team worked relentlessly to identify the cause early, initiate targeted therapy, and train the parents. This success story reflects the cutting-edge care and clinical excellence available at Medicover Hospital.”
Parents Express Heartfelt Gratitude
“This was our first pregnancy, and we were devastated when complications occurred so early,” shared Shamita Sinha (name changed). “But from the moment we entered the NICU, we knew our baby was in safe hands. Dr. Tanmesh, Dr. Rachana, and the entire team not only saved our baby’s life but also gave us the confidence to take care of him at home.”