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Type II diabetes

The most common type of diabetes, non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM or type II), is the milder form of diabetes. Symptoms can generally be controlled with diet or oral medications that decrease blood sugar levels. True NIDDM does not develop into the insulin-dependent type of diabetes. In NIDDM, blood sugar levels become elevated because of resistance to the effects of insulin, which is usually present at normal levels. In other words, there may be plenty of insulin available, but the cells are not sensitive to insulin's effects. This results in the inability of insulin to move glucose to the inside of cells where it can be used. NIDDM typically develops after age 40, although it can occur at any age. Affected individuals tend to be obese and are not prone to ketosis.

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)

Impaired glucose tolerance is a symptom characterized by lab test results that indicate elevated blood glucose levels. The results are not abnormal enough to be called "diabetes." However, IGT may be an early sign of NIDDM, and is certainly a risk factor for developing NIDDM.

MODY

Clinical severity is determined in part by the specific gene associated with disease within a family. MODY3 mutations result in the most severe clinical presentation, with 97% of cases having NIDDM, as opposed to impaired glucose tolerance. Individuals with MODY1 commonly experience vascular complications and require insulin in one-third of cases. Glucokinase (GCK) gene mutations, although the most common cause of MODY, tend to result in the mildest clinical picture. Approximately 46% have NIDDM, and the remaining individuals have IGT. Individuals with GCK-related MODY rarely need insulin and usually don't experience vascular complications.

Gestational diabetes

Also called diabetes of pregnancy, this form of the disease is often limited to the time during which a woman is pregnant. Management of glucose levels in affected women during pregnancy is very important, because high glucose levels can have serious, negative effects on the developing fetus. Gestational diabetes usually disappears after delivery. However, history of gestational diabetes increases a woman's risk of developing NIDDM in the future and of having gestational diabetes again in future pregnancies. Risk factors for gestational diabetes are similar to those for NIDDM.

Diabetes Health Article

Type II diabetes

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)

MODY

Gestational diabetes