title: Classification and pathogenesis of the diabetes syndrome: a historical perspective.
abstract: Once thought to be solely a disease of insulin deficiency, diabetes mellitus now is recognized as a disorder with multiple pathogenetic mechanisms. Newer terminology identifies those uncommon patients with true insulin deficiency as having insulin-dependent diabetes (IDDM), while the majority of patients with diabetes have some residual insulin secretion but may have a disorder of insulin receptor number or affinity. These patients have non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM). Other patients may have gestational diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance, a potential for glucose intolerance, or a previous history of diabetes. A few patients will have diabetes secondary to a known cause, such as pancreatitis or Cushing's syndrome. Understanding this nosological approach to diabetes should enhance the clinician's decisions regarding therapy.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000145:classification / Q000209:etiology / Q000266:history*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D006680:HLA Antigens / Q000235:genetics; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000097:blood / Q000172:deficiency; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D011972:Receptor, Insulin / Q000502:physiology; D014777:Virus Diseases / Q000150:complications
chemical_list: D006680:HLA Antigens; D007328:Insulin; D011972:Receptor, Insulin