[Pancreatic hormone secretion in patients with newly detected diabetes mellitus]

The level of pancreatic hormones was studied in 10 healthy persons and in 40 patients with diabetes mellitus detected for the first time by GTT, their body mass being normal. For assessment of immunoreactive insulin (IRI), the level of proinsulin and biological activity of serum insulin were determined, and these indices were compared with glucose and C-peptide levels. The examinees' inhomogeneity was shown; on the basis of the findings obtained 2 groups were identified. A decrease in the levels of IRI, C-peptide and biological activity of serum insulin in the 1st group indicated a possibility of type I diabetes mellitus in such patients. Hyperinsulinemia, not correlating with glucose and C-peptide, a high percentage of proinsulin and low biological activity of serum insulin were noted in the 2nd group. The study permitted a differentiated approach to assessment of patients and a choice of therapeutic tactics.