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Updated: May 19, 2026

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Intraportal Transplantation of Pancreatic Islets in Mouse Model
Published on: May 5, 2018
Hyperglycemia following pancreas transplantation: Rethinking graft function and metabolic control
Neeraj Singh1, Sandesh Parajuli2, Swati Rao3
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
Summary
Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is distinct from pancreas graft failure. This framework helps diagnose and manage PTDM in pancreas transplant recipients for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Transplantation
Background:
- Pancreas transplantation (PTX) is effective for diabetes, but post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) can occur.
- PTDM is distinct from pancreas graft failure (PGF) and other hyperglycemia causes post-PTX.
Purpose of the Study:
- Propose a diagnostic and management framework for PTDM after PTX.
- Distinguish PTDM from PGF and transient hyperglycemia.
Main Methods:
- Defined PTDM as persistent hyperglycemia with a functioning graft, excluding rejection, infection, or technical issues.
- Diagnosis after immunosuppression stabilization.
- Identified risk factors: donor age, recipient obesity, insulin use, weight gain, immunosuppressants (tacrolimus, glucocorticoids).
Main Results:
- PTDM mimics PGF and is linked to adverse outcomes.
- Pharmacologic management options include metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 RAs, DPP-4 inhibitors, or insulin.
- Multidisciplinary care and weight management are crucial.
Conclusions:
- A clear diagnostic and management strategy is needed for PTDM post-PTX.
- Early identification and intervention can mitigate PTDM's adverse effects.
- Integrated care optimizes outcomes for pancreas transplant recipients.
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