Type I Diabetes
In Type I insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), the beta cells of the pancreas fail to produce sufficient amounts of insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Type I diabetes is called insulin dependent diabetes mellitus because it is characterized by the body’s insufficient manufacture of insulin, resulting in excessively high blood glucose levels. In a healthy non-diabetic person, beta cells in the pancreatic islets are responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that allows glucose to be transported across cell membranes so that it can be used for energy. When these beta cells are destroyed, the result is insufficient insulin production by the pancreas. When there isn’t enough insulin, blood glucose levels can become dangerously elevated.
The primary step in the development of diabetes mellitus is the activation of T lymphocytes, cells involved in the body’s immunity against foreign invaders and especially against viral infections. It is believed that in Type I diabetes, T lymphocytes develop that target specific antigens present on the pancreatic beta cells. The antigen may be something seemingly harmless, but the immune system reacts forcefully by orchestrating a slow destruction of the beta cells.
This type of diabetes is usually associated with an early onset and represents only about 10% of diabetics. It is most often diagnosed in children and adolescents, but can occur at any stage of life. Although Type I diabetes can occur at any time, it usually develops before 30 years of age. Patients tend to be thin because the lack of insulin prevents most of the cells of the body from accessing the glucose fuel in the blood.
Type I diabetics are also prone to developing diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition which results from an excess breakdown of fat for energy. Ketones, byproducts of the breakdown of fats for energy, build up in the blood, and, if left unchecked, can produce a fruity smelling breath and impair judgment. Severe ketoacidosis is a medical emergency sbecause it can render a person unconscious and can be fatal.
The other serious condition that Type I diabetics can experience is hypoglycemic coma. In this case, instead of excess glucose in the blood, the blood sugar drops excessively. This is typically due to excessive insulin injections.
Usually Type I diabetes requires routine treatments with exogenous insulin and close monitoring of blood glucose levels throughout your life.
