Tzield®, the first FDA-approved treatment to delay the onset of clinical diabetes, is now available for children who need it.
This treatment, also called teplizumab, addresses the underlying autoimmune process of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and can delay the onset of clinical diabetes by up to two years.
Since early identification is crucial to ensure timely initiation of treatment, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has developed a specialized clinic designed for at-risk children. Our mission is to provide monitoring and treatment options for those who are eligible. The program also tracks those who may be at risk but do not yet qualify for treatment and closely monitors individuals receiving treatment.
How we determine eligibility
Identifying the stage of diabetes a person is in is crucial. To be eligible for Tzield®, an individual must be in Stage 2. If someone is in Stage 1, it’s important to monitor their condition closely to determine if they progress to Stage 2 and become eligible at a later time.
In Stage 1, diabetes-related autoantibodies develop, blood sugar levels remain normal and there are no visible symptoms.
In Stage 2, due to a further loss of beta cells, blood sugar levels become abnormal in a setting of positive autoantibodies. Despite these changes, symptoms are often still not present.
In Stage 3, individuals begin to experience symptoms of T1D due to significant beta cell loss. Common symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision and fatigue. In some cases, people are diagnosed with T1D after being hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Why screen for T1D?
We offer screening services and provide access to clinical research trials aimed at preventing T1D for individuals diagnosed in the early stages. Screening for T1D allows for early detection and can help prevent diabetic ketoacidosis, potentially reducing prolonged hospitalizations and the emotional strain of caring for a sick child.
Our Program
Our team of dedicated experts, including Neha S. Patel, DO and Steven M. Willi, MD, support families at every stage of T1D and help them navigate the challenges of early T1D. From diagnosis to ongoing management, we offer thorough education on blood sugar monitoring, recognizing early symptoms and potential interventions.
Treatment details
We offer access to Tzield® (teplizumab) at our clinic for eligible candidates. This innovative treatment marks a significant advancement in managing early T1D. Our team will work closely with patients and their families to assess whether teplizumab is the right option, ensuring personalized and effective care at every stage of the process.
Learn more about how we help children at risk of T1D.
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Tzield®, the first FDA-approved treatment to delay the onset of clinical diabetes, is now available for children who need it.
This treatment, also called teplizumab, addresses the underlying autoimmune process of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and can delay the onset of clinical diabetes by up to two years.
Since early identification is crucial to ensure timely initiation of treatment, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has developed a specialized clinic designed for at-risk children. Our mission is to provide monitoring and treatment options for those who are eligible. The program also tracks those who may be at risk but do not yet qualify for treatment and closely monitors individuals receiving treatment.
How we determine eligibility
Identifying the stage of diabetes a person is in is crucial. To be eligible for Tzield®, an individual must be in Stage 2. If someone is in Stage 1, it’s important to monitor their condition closely to determine if they progress to Stage 2 and become eligible at a later time.
In Stage 1, diabetes-related autoantibodies develop, blood sugar levels remain normal and there are no visible symptoms.
In Stage 2, due to a further loss of beta cells, blood sugar levels become abnormal in a setting of positive autoantibodies. Despite these changes, symptoms are often still not present.
In Stage 3, individuals begin to experience symptoms of T1D due to significant beta cell loss. Common symptoms include excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision and fatigue. In some cases, people are diagnosed with T1D after being hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Why screen for T1D?
We offer screening services and provide access to clinical research trials aimed at preventing T1D for individuals diagnosed in the early stages. Screening for T1D allows for early detection and can help prevent diabetic ketoacidosis, potentially reducing prolonged hospitalizations and the emotional strain of caring for a sick child.
Our Program
Our team of dedicated experts, including Neha S. Patel, DO and Steven M. Willi, MD, support families at every stage of T1D and help them navigate the challenges of early T1D. From diagnosis to ongoing management, we offer thorough education on blood sugar monitoring, recognizing early symptoms and potential interventions.
Treatment details
We offer access to Tzield® (teplizumab) at our clinic for eligible candidates. This innovative treatment marks a significant advancement in managing early T1D. Our team will work closely with patients and their families to assess whether teplizumab is the right option, ensuring personalized and effective care at every stage of the process.
Learn more about how we help children at risk of T1D.
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Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes