Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2025

Study of In Vivo Glucose Metabolism in High-fat Diet-fed Mice Using Oral Glucose Tolerance Test OGTT and Insulin Tolerance Test ITT
Published on: January 7, 2018
Lipohypertrophy and Insulin: An Old Dog That Needs New Tricks
Jingtong Huang1, Andrea M Yeung1, David Kerr1
1Diabetes Technology Society, Burlingame, California.
Insulin-associated lipohypertrophy (LH), a common complication, can be prevented and treated. Proper insulin injection techniques are key to managing this condition and its effects on glucose control.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Insulin-associated lipohypertrophy (LH) is a frequent dermatologic complication of insulin therapy.
- It involves the accumulation of fatty subcutaneous nodules due to repeated insulin injections in the same site.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current practical knowledge on insulin-associated lipohypertrophy (LH).
- Emphasis on clinical aspects including pathophysiology, consequences, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of published literature.
- Inclusion of expert contributions focusing on clinical aspects.
Main Results:
- LH is the most common skin complication of insulin therapy.
- Risk factors include repeated injections, injection trauma, and reusing needles.
- LH can affect insulin absorption, leading to glucose variability, despite reduced injection pain. Ultrasound can detect early-stage LH.
Conclusions:
- Physiological and psychological impacts of LH are preventable and treatable.
- Education on proper insulin injection techniques is crucial for management.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into...
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon

