|
Most forms of diabetes fall within two major categories:
Type 1 is insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or "juvenile onset." Fortunately, only about 5 - 10% of alI diabetic patients are affected with Type 1 (insulin-dependent).
Type 2 is non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or "adult onset." It usually occurs in patients over 35-40 years of age but can occur in children. Type 2 patients tend to be obese, and although not dependent on insulin for survival, may require it for hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) that is resistant to other treatment.
Gestational diabetes develops in 2-5% of all pregnancies. Although it usually disappears when pregnancy is over, it occasionally persists in women with previously undetected diabetes. Sometimes insulin is required. Most all women with gestational diabetes will have a recurrence in subsequent pregnancies. With each successive pregnancy, the diabetes has a tendency to begin sooner, become more severe, and develop into a permanent condition.
Some patients have unexplained combinations of Types 1 and 2. Overlapping characteristics of the two types include patients who typically have adult onset but are near normal in body weight and are insulin-deficient (they require insulin treatment). This form of diabetes is sometimes referred to as "Type 1 ½".
Secondary diabetes describes most forms not covered by the two main types. Causes of these include any condition that causes damage to or loss of the pancreas (blunt trauma, cancer, alcohol abuse, exposure to chemicals,
pancreatitis). |
