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Glucose intolerance in spinal cord injury
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1983
Summary
Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients frequently experience glucose intolerance, often marked by high blood sugar and insulin resistance. This suggests underlying issues with how the body uses insulin after injury.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Glucose intolerance is common in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.
- Previous studies indicate high rates of hyperglycemia and impaired glucose tolerance in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of glucose intolerance in SCI patients.
- To explore potential mechanisms, such as insulin resistance, contributing to glucose intolerance post-SCI.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart analysis of SCI patient discharges.
- Screening studies involving glucose load tests in stable SCI patients.
Main Results:
- 23% of SCI discharges exhibited fasting hyperglycemia.
- In screening studies, 30% of SCI patients had 2-hour post-glucose load values >200mg/dl, and 40% exceeded 140mg/dl.
- Over 40% of glucose-intolerant SCI patients showed hyperinsulinemia, indicating potential tissue resistance to insulin.
Conclusions:
- Glucose intolerance is a significant issue in SCI patients.
- Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are likely contributors to glucose intolerance following spinal cord injury.