Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is an uncommon form of diabetes that is caused by a genetic defect inherited from either parent. It is sometimes considered a subgroup of type 2 diabetes but differs in several ways from the standard form of that disease. It can also be misdiagnosed as type 1 diabetes or other forms of diabetes.

MODY is most often diagnosed in teens or young adults of normal weight and build. It is sometimes seen in children as young as 6 years old.

Several genetic defects have been identified in MODY patients. Of the eight known types of MODY, most can be controlled by diet alone or through antidiabetic agents. However, certain types of MODY require insulin therapy.

The offspring of a person with MODY have a 50 percent risk of developing the condition. Because of this, MODY is often present in at least two generations of a patient’s family.