Types of Diabetes Mellitus

There are two main types of diabetes mellitus (DM). Type 1 DM results from failure to produce insulin. This form of diabetes was previously referred to as "insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (IDDM) or "juvenile diabetes". Type 2 DM results from insulin resistance, a condition in which cells fail to response to the action of insulin. This form was previously referred to as non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or "adult-onset diabetes". The third form, gestational diabetes occurs when pregnant women without a previous diagnosis of diabetes develop a high blood glucose level. Diabetes is a chronic disease requiring long-term treatment and monitoring. Type I DM requires insulin injection, and type 2 diabetes may be controlled with medications. Gestational diabetes usually resolves after delivery but one-third may develop type 2 DM with time.