DIABETES MELLITUS :-
1. Definition
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia
resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. It leads to disturbances in
carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism.
2. Classification of Diabetes Mellitus (Proper Explanation)
Diabetes Mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by persistent hyperglycemia
due to defects in insulin secretion, action, or both. It is classified into the following major
categories:
1. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)
● Definition: Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells leading to absolute insulin
deficiency.
● Other Names: Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), juvenile-onset diabetes.
● Etiology:
○ Autoimmune process (common).
○ Idiopathic causes (rare).
● Pathophysiology: Complete lack of insulin production due to beta-cell destruction.
● Features:
○ Sudden onset, typically in childhood or adolescence.
○ Symptoms: Polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), polyphagia
(excessive hunger), weight loss.
○ Requires lifelong insulin therapy.
2. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)
● Definition: A combination of insulin resistance in peripheral tissues and inadequate
insulin secretion by beta cells.
, ● Other Names: Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), adult-onset diabetes.
● Etiology:
○ Genetic predisposition.
○ Environmental factors like obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
● Pathophysiology:
○ Insulin resistance in muscle, fat, and liver tissues.
○ Compensatory hyperinsulinemia initially; later, beta-cell dysfunction and insulin
deficiency occur.
● Features:
○ Gradual onset, often in adulthood.
○ Symptoms: Fatigue, recurrent infections, slow wound healing, and blurred vision.
○ Managed with lifestyle modifications, oral hypoglycemic drugs, and/or insulin.
3. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
● Definition: Hyperglycemia diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy.
● Etiology:
○ Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause insulin resistance.
● Pathophysiology: Increased insulin demand is unmet due to pancreatic insufficiency.
● Features:
○ Detected during the second or third trimester.
○ Usually resolves postpartum but increases the risk of T2DM in the future.
● Complications:
○ Maternal: Increased risk of preeclampsia, cesarean delivery.
○ Fetal: Macrosomia (large baby), neonatal hypoglycemia, respiratory distress.
4. Other Specific Types
1. Genetic Defects in Beta-Cell Function:
○ Examples: MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young), mitochondrial
diabetes.
○ Cause: Mutations in genes like HNF1A, HNF4A, or GCK.
2. Diseases of the Exocrine Pancreas:
○ Examples: Chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, hemochromatosis.
○ Effect: Destruction of insulin-producing cells.
3. Endocrinopathies:
○ Examples:
■ Cushing’s syndrome (excess cortisol).
■ Acromegaly (excess growth hormone).
○ Effect: Hormones antagonize insulin action.
4. Drug or Chemical-Induced Diabetes: