Understanding the Uncommon: Michelle Trachtenberg’s Unexpected Diabetes Battle and Its Implications at Just 39

• Michelle Trachtenberg’s unexpected death resulted from complications related to diabetes, as confirmed by the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
• Diabetes can be deadly if not effectively managed, and experts often refer to it as the “silent killer.”
• Reports indicate that Trachtenberg had undergone a liver transplant, a procedure that can lead to diabetes in approximately 30% of cases.

Michelle Trachtenberg passed away unexpectedly at the age of 39, sparking questions regarding the cause of her death. On April 16, the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed that she died from complications related to diabetes mellitus.

Her death has been classified as natural.

“Diabetes is known as a silent killer,” explained Dr. Zinoviy Abelev, a specialist in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at Northwell Health and an Assistant Professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.

Dr. Abelev, who did not participate in the investigation of Trachtenberg’s death, elaborated, “Many individuals often overlook the signs of diabetes. The damage happens gradually, affecting organs, the heart, kidneys, liver, eyes, and blood vessels over time.”

He added, “Preventing these complications requires proper recognition of the symptoms and effective management of blood sugar levels through medications like insulin or GLP-1 injections, or oral medications.”

Symptoms of unregulated diabetes, particularly if it has recently developed, include excessive thirst, fatigue, unintended weight loss, frequent urination, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, and frequent yeast or urinary tract infections.

Sources indicate that the actress, known for her role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, had recently undergone a liver transplant, which may have led to complications from the surgery.

“It is unclear if she had pre-existing diabetes, which may have contributed to her need for a liver transplant,” Dr. Abelev noted, emphasizing that diabetes can be a complication following such surgeries in about 30% of cases.

He explained, “This condition is referred to as NODAT, or New Onset Diabetes After Transplant. Patients undergoing chronic immunosuppressive therapy and steroids like prednisone often experience elevated blood sugar levels.”

Dr. Abelev also mentioned that “all post-transplant patients, regardless of the organ, are typically monitored very closely.”

If you notice any symptoms of diabetes, Dr. Abelev advises seeking medical assistance promptly. “Once complications develop, it is generally irreversible,” he cautions.