Adolescents with Insulin-Dependent Diabetes

Although the basic pathophysiology of insulin-dependent diabetes remains unchanged, regardless of age, diabetes among adolescents is affected by certain biologic and psychosocial developments, such as reduced insulin sensitivity and compliance with treatment regimens. Emergent and urgent conditions associated with adolescent diabetes include hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis, abdominal pain, painful foot syndrome, eating disorders, and ophthalmologic problems. Diagnosis, etiology, and treatment of each are discussed in detail.