[Insulin secretion and aging. Implications for insulin therapy in the geriatric patient with diabetes mellitus].
Diabetes mellitus has become a global epidemic. With diabetes prevalence highest in old age groups and aging populations, it is the prevalence among the elderly, above all, where most dramatic increases can be expected. The present paper summarizes the age-related metabolic abnormalities resulting in diabetes mellitus, specifically the progressive decline in beta-cell function. In addition, insulin therapy in the elderly is described. Among the many different insulins and therapeutic algorithms, advantages and disadvantages pertaining to the elderly will be highlighted. Specifics in frequency, pathophysiology, and avoidance of severe hypoglycemia in the elderly are discussed.
Fritsche
Andreas
A
Abteilung Innere Medizin I, Medizinische Universitätsklinik, Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen. andreas.fritsche@med.uni-tuebingen.de
Stumvoll
Michael
M
Häring
Hans-Ulrich
HU
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000378:metabolism; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000097:blood* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007515:Islets of Langerhans / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology; D012636:Secretory Rate / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D001786:Blood Glucose; D007328:Insulin