Diabetes mellitus medical definition
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Medical Definition of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a group of chronic metabolic diseases marked by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) due to problems with insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. When insulin is not produced in enough quantity or the body cannot use it properly, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being used by the cells Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+6 MORE.
Causes and Pathogenesis of Diabetes Mellitus
The main causes of diabetes mellitus are either an absolute deficiency of insulin (as seen in type 1 diabetes) or a combination of resistance to insulin action and inadequate insulin secretion (as seen in type 2 diabetes). Type 1 diabetes is usually due to autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes is more common and results from the body's inability to use insulin effectively, often combined with a relative lack of insulin production. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of diabetes Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+7 MORE.
Symptoms and Clinical Presentation
Common symptoms of diabetes mellitus include frequent urination (polyuria), increased thirst (polydipsia), increased hunger (polyphagia), weight loss, and blurred vision. Some people may also experience fatigue, slow healing of wounds, and increased susceptibility to infections. In severe cases, diabetes can lead to life-threatening conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar syndrome Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+7 MORE.
Long-Term Complications
Chronic high blood sugar in diabetes can cause long-term damage to various organs, especially the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy), nerves (neuropathy), heart, and blood vessels. This can lead to vision loss, kidney failure, nerve damage, foot ulcers, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke. People with diabetes are also more likely to have high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels, which further increase the risk of cardiovascular disease Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+7 MORE.
Types of Diabetes Mellitus
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Caused by an absolute deficiency of insulin due to autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. It often starts in childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age. Insulin therapy is required for survival Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+6 MORE.
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Caused by a combination of insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion. It is more common in adults but is increasingly seen in younger people. Management may include lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+6 MORE.
- Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life .
Diagnosis
Diabetes is diagnosed by measuring blood glucose levels, either in the fasting state or after a glucose challenge. Abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism can be detected even before symptoms appear, allowing for early diagnosis and intervention Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+4 MORE.
Conclusion
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder defined by high blood sugar due to problems with insulin production or action. It can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. Early diagnosis and effective management are crucial to prevent or delay the onset of complications and improve quality of life Alberti2009Basevi2011T2010+7 MORE.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion or insulin action, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia caused by defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, leading to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs.
Definition, Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a syndrome characterized by hyperglycemia and impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, due to an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin secretion and/or insulin action.
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