Michelle Trachtenberg, known for roles in Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, died from complications related to diabetes mellitus, the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner confirmed on 16 April. Her death has been ruled natural following a toxicology review, according to officials.
Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of conditions that impair the body’s ability to process blood sugar, or glucose, which is essential for cellular energy and brain function.
The Mayo Clinic states that when untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels and long-term complications including heart disease, nerve and kidney damage, vision issues, and increased risk of infections.
There are different types of diabetes: Type 1, where the body produces little or no insulin; Type 2, where the body cannot use insulin properly; and gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight loss, blurred vision, frequent infections, and the presence of ketones in urine.
Trachtenberg, who had reportedly undergone a liver transplant prior to her death, had withdrawn from public life and shared health struggles with close friends. An insider noted that she was “very open with those close to her about having the transplant,” though she did not publicly discuss her condition.
Her death prompted tributes from former co-stars including Sarah Michelle Gellar and Blake Lively, highlighting the impact she had both on and off screen.
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