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Diabetes mellitus in childhood cystic fibrosis

F Rauf1, T O'Halloran, J B Watson

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Cork University Hospital, Wilton.

Irish Medical Journal
|January 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasingly diagnosed in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients due to longer survival. High-calorie feeding may contribute, necessitating regular screening and early insulin treatment for this unique form of DM.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Pulmonology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients are living longer.
  • Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a growing concern in CF care.
  • Previous research has not fully elucidated the risk factors for DM in CF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the incidence and potential causes of DM in pediatric CF patients.
  • To highlight the unique characteristics of DM in CF.
  • To recommend screening and management strategies for DM in CF.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of five CF patients with DM at Cork Regional Hospital.
  • Comparison with data from nine other pediatric CF clinics in Ireland.
  • Analysis of patient history, including feeding regimes and corticosteroid use.

Main Results:

  • Five CF patients developed DM, two with high-calorie naso-gastric feeding; none received corticosteroids.
  • Two patients died from lung disease; one developed cataracts.
  • Three of 420 pediatric CF patients in other clinics had DM.

Conclusions:

  • Abnormal glucose tolerance is more prevalent in CF patients with increased longevity.
  • High-calorie feeding regimens may play a role in DM development.
  • DM in CF differs from typical childhood DM, warranting specific screening and early insulin management.

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