This page has moved. Click here to view.
Diabetis mellitus consists of hyperglycemia caused by insulin deficiency, impairment of insulin action, or both. Five percent of the population is affected by diabetis, 10% of whom have type 1 diabetis. Hyperglycemia with ketoacidosis can lead to severe electrolyte disturbances, cerebral insulin edema, and vascular collapse. Chronic hyperglycemia can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels. Overtreatment of hyperglycemia can cause hypoglycemia, resulting in seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.
Classification of Diabetis Mellitus
Diabetis mellitus is classified into two types: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 Diabetis
Type 1 diabetis is caused by absolute insulin deficiency. Most cases among children and adolescents (95%) result from autoimmune destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas.
The peak age at diagnosis is 12 years, and 75-80% of individuals develop type 1 diabetis before age 30. Some persons present with ketoacidosis at disease onset (usually children), while others manifest elevated glucose levels for years (more common in adults).
Gender distribution is equal. Caucasians have the highest incidence of type 1 diabetis.
Type 2 Diabetis
Type 2 diabetis is caused by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. Most type 2 diabetics do not require insulin injections.
Most diabetis patients who have type 2 diabetis are obese. Native Americans, Mexican-Americans, African-Americans, and Pacific Islanders are diabetis Mellitus insulin at increased risk.
Pathogenesis of Type 1 diabetis
Type 1 diabetis develops in individuals who are genetically susceptible, have certain environmental exposures, and have