Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus Type 1

Causes and Risk Factors:

Viral Infection
Genetics People do not inherit DM type 1 itself;
rather, they inherit a genetic disposition or
tendency towards developing it.
Immune-mediated diabetes commonly
develops during childhood and adolescence, but
it can occur at any age
Development of antibodies
Certain drugs and chemicals
Ex. Pyrinuron found in rat poison
Streptozotocin anticancer & antibiotic

Bodys immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta

cells of the pancreas

Destruction of pancreatic beta cells

Continuation.

Decreased insulin productivity

Unchecked glucose production by the liver
Fasting hyperglycemia

Reduced tissue uptake of glucose

Intracellular
Hypoglycemia

Extracellular
Hyperglycemia

Glucogenesis and
gluconeogenesis

Breakdown of fats

High levels of
ketones

Diabetic
ketoacidosis

Continuation.

Hyperosmotic
plasma

Decreased
protein
synthesis
- Cachexia
- Lethargy
- Polyphagia
Decreased
gamma
globulins
- Susceptibility
to Infections
- Impaired
wound

Dehydration of cells

Hyperglycemic
coma

Blood glucose>
renal threshold

Glucosuria Urine
has a high sugar

Osmotic diuresis:
-

Polyuria
Polydipsia
Hypokalaemi
a
hyponatremia

IF TREATED

Glycemic control
Self-monitoring of
blood sugar levels
Insulin therapy
Weight management
diet and exercise

Patient may live a normal

happy and long life

IF UNTREATED

The morbidity and mortality associated with

diabetes are related to the short-term and longterm complications. Such complications include
the following:
Hypoglyccemia from management errors
Increased risk of infection
Microvascular complications (ex.
Retinopathy and nephropathy)
Neuropathic complications
Macrovascular disease

Complications may result to:

Increased risk for ischemic heart disease
Cerebral vascular disease
Peripheral vascular disease with gangrene
of limbs
Chronic renal disease or end-stage renal
disease
Reduced visual acuity and blindness
Autonomic and peripheral neuropathy