Diabetes

Question 1

Define diabetes

Answer 1

A metabolic disorder; the absence, deficit or resistance to insulin, leading to hyperglycaemia

Question 2

What are the two types of diabetes with their main causes?

Answer 2

Type II - IDDM - family history, viral infection

Type II - NIDDM - obesity, hypertension, lifestyle, diet

Question 3

Where is Insulin produced?

Answer 3

Beta cells in the Islets of Langerhans’ in the Pancreas

Question 4

What other types of cell are found in the Islets of Langerhans’ and what do they do?

Answer 4

Alpha cells - produce glucagon to maintain glucose between meals
Delta cells - produce somatostatin and gastrin to regulate alpha and beta cells

Question 5

Describe the pathology and mechanism of TI Diabetes

Answer 5

Due to beta cell destruction, predominantly via autoimmune processes; no insulin so glucose can’t enter cells

Question 6

Describe the pathology of TII Diabetes

Answer 6

Multifactorial causes, both genetic and environmental, that affect beta cell function and tissues sensitivity to insulin. Not enough insulin or enough insulin but insulin resistance. Can give more insulin but reducing BF can reverse resistance.

Question 7

What are the relative incidences of TII and TII diabetes?

Answer 7

TI - 10%

TII - 90%

Question 8

Describe the management of TI and TII diabetes

Answer 8

TI - lifestyle changes, insulin tables

TII - insulin injections