Diabetic ketoacidosis in acromegaly; a rare complication precipitated by corticosteroid use

Insulin resistance and the development of diabetes mellitus is a common complication of acromegaly. Prevalence of type 2 diabetes in acromegaly varies from 19 to 56% depending on the case series [1]. In acromegaly, high levels of growth hormone and subsequent stimulation of insulin-like growth factor 1 synthesis contribute to peripheral insulin resistance and the development of diabetes [2]. Although absolute insulin levels may be normal or high, the presence of severe insulin resistance may predispose to diabetic ketoacidosis.
Source: Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice - Category: Endocrinology Authors: Source Type: research