How many types of diabetes are there
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Summary
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These studies suggest there are at least five well-characterized subtypes of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
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Types of Diabetes: An Overview
Major Types of Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2
Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune Destruction
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of the pancreas's beta cells, which produce insulin. This destruction leads to an absolute insulin deficiency, necessitating insulin therapy for survival. Individuals with type 1 diabetes typically require insulin administration either through daily injections or continuous infusion via an insulin pump .
Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin Resistance and Deficiency
Type 2 diabetes is primarily caused by a combination of insulin resistance and a relative deficiency in insulin production. This form of diabetes is more prevalent, accounting for over 90% of diabetes cases globally. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity, which exacerbate insulin resistance .
Other Recognized Types of Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
Gestational diabetes mellitus is diagnosed during the second or third trimester of pregnancy and is not clearly overt diabetes prior to gestation. It poses risks to both the mother and the fetus and requires careful management to prevent complications .
Specific Types Due to Other Causes
There are several specific types of diabetes caused by other factors, including:
- Monogenic Diabetes Syndromes: These include neonatal diabetes and maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), which are caused by single gene mutations.
- Diseases of the Exocrine Pancreas: Conditions such as cystic fibrosis can lead to diabetes.
- Drug or Chemical-Induced Diabetes: Certain medications, such as glucocorticoids used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS or post-organ transplantation, can induce diabetes .
Emerging Subtypes and Heterogeneity
Beyond Traditional Classifications
Recent research suggests that diabetes is more heterogeneous than the traditional classification into type 1 and type 2. Studies have identified at least five subtypes of diabetes, each with distinct clinical characteristics, disease progression, and risk profiles. These subtypes include severe insulin-deficient diabetes (SIDD) and severe insulin-resistant diabetes (SIRD), among others. This refined classification can lead to more personalized treatment approaches and better management of complications .
Hybrid Forms of Diabetes
There are also hybrid forms of diabetes, such as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), which exhibit characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. These forms further complicate the classification and management of diabetes, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of the disease .
Conclusion
Diabetes is a complex and heterogeneous disease with multiple types and subtypes. The primary forms are type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but other types such as gestational diabetes and specific diabetes due to other causes also exist. Emerging research continues to uncover new subtypes, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to diabetes management. Understanding these various forms is crucial for effective treatment and prevention strategies.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
9
[Classification and diagnosis of diabetes].
9
2,880 Citations
1953