Related Experiment Videos
Insulin dependent diabetes in children
1Department of Pediatrics, B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad.
Insights
This study reviews twenty children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, highlighting that most presented with diabetic ketoacidosis. Poor glycemic control was observed in over half of the followed patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a chronic condition requiring lifelong management.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of IDDM, particularly in children.
- Understanding the presentation and outcomes of pediatric DKA is crucial for improving patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical experience with pediatric patients admitted for insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
- To evaluate the initial presentation, treatment, and short-term outcomes of these patients.
- To assess glycemic control and complication rates in a cohort of children with IDDM.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of twenty pediatric patients with IDDM admitted over 2.5 years.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation (acute vs. gradual onset), and treatment received.
- Assessment of glycemic control using glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and documentation of complications like DKA and hypoglycemia during follow-up.
Main Results:
- Sixteen of twenty children presented with acute onset diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
- One patient died during the acute phase.
- Among eleven patients followed for 3-6 months, only three showed good glycemic control (HbA1c), while six had poor control. Six patients experienced recurrent DKA, and three had hypoglycemia.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus frequently present with severe diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Achieving and maintaining adequate glycemic control remains a significant challenge in this population.
- Close monitoring and proactive management are essential to prevent recurrent DKA and hypoglycemia in children with IDDM.
Abstract:
We present our experience with twenty children with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus admitted during the past 2 1/2 years. Sixteen patients were admitted with acute onset of ketoacidosis while four were having gradual onset. Active and symptomatic treatment was started in all diabetic ketoacidotic patients. One patient died during the acute stage. Eleven patients were followed for 3-6 months or more. Glycosylated hemoglobin was considered as a criteria for control. Three had good control, two fair and six poor control; six developed diabetic ketoacidosis and three developed hypoglycemia.