endocrine diabetes and diabetes problems Flashcards
What is diabetes mellitus (DM)?
A chronic, multisystem disease characterized by poor insulin production, impaired insulin utilization, or both.
What are three major complications associated with DM?
Adult blindness, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and non-traumatic lower limb amputations.
How does DM contribute to cardiovascular issues?
It is a major contributing factor to heart disease and stroke.
What are the four diagnostic criteria for DM?
- HgbA1C ≥ 6.5%
- Fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL
- 2-hour plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test
- Random plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL in a patient with hyperglycemia symptoms.
What does the HgbA1C test measure?
The percentage of hemoglobin with glucose attached, reflecting blood sugar control over the previous 2-3 months.
Why is HgbA1C important in diabetes management?
It helps assess long-term glucose control and determines if treatment is effective or needs adjustment.
What are the normal glucose levels?
74-106 mg/dL.
At what glucose level is considered low?
Below 74 mg/dL.
At what glucose level is considered high?
Above 106 mg/dL.
What are the four types of diabetes mellitus (DM)?
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
- Other specific types (such as those due to genetic defects, diseases of the exocrine pancreas, and drug-induced diabetes).
What is Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)?
An autoimmune disorder where the body develops antibodies against insulin and/or pancreatic beta cells, leading to no insulin production.
What happens when insulin production stops in T1DM?
Glucose remains in the blood, causing cell, tissue, and organ death, which can ultimately be fatal if untreated.
When is T1DM typically diagnosed?
Usually before 40 years of age, though the onset is gradual.
What are two risk factors for developing T1DM?
Genetic predisposition and exposure to viruses.
What is a life-threatening complication of rapid T1DM onset?
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
What is the classic triad of symptoms in T1DM?
Polydipsia (excessive thirst), polyuria (frequent urination), and polyphagia (excessive hunger).
Why do individuals with T1DM experience polyphagia?
The body believes it is not receiving enough sugar because glucose cannot enter cells without insulin.
What other symptoms are common in T1DM?
Weakness, fatigue, weight loss, and electrolyte abnormalities.
What is Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)?
A condition characterized by inadequate insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and other contributing factors.
What are some common risk factors for T2DM?
Overweight/obesity, older age, family history of T2DM, and being part of non-white ethnic groups.
How does T2DM commonly co-occur with other health issues?
It often co-occurs with high cholesterol and hypertension.
What is the trend regarding T2DM incidence in children?
The incidence is growing due to the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity.
What are the classic symptoms of T2DM?
Polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), and polyphagia (excessive hunger).
What additional symptoms might indicate T2DM?
Weakness and fatigue, recurrent infections, prolonged wound healing, vision changes, and signs of renal failure.
What is metabolic syndrome?
A cluster of conditions increasing the risk for T2DM, characterized by having 3 of the following 5 factors: hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, hypertension, high triglyceride levels, and low levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs).
How many factors must an individual have to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome?
An individual must have at least 3 of the 5 specified factors.
What is gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)?
Diabetes diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy, caused by hormonal changes that block the action of insulin, leading to hyperglycemia.
When does GDM typically develop during pregnancy?
Usually in the third trimester.