glycogenolysis (breakdown of stored glucose) and gluconeogenesis (production of

new glucose from amino acids and other substrates), these processes occur in an
unrestrained fashion in people with insulin deficiency and contribute further to
hyperglycemia. In addition, fat breakdown occurs, resulting in an increased
production of ketone bodies, which are the byproducts of fat breakdown.

diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

a metabolic derangement in type 1 diabetes that results from a deficiency of insulin.
Highly acidic ketone bodies are formed, resulting in acidosis; usually requires
hospitalization for treatment and is usually caused by nonadherence to the insulin
regimen, concurrent illness, or infection.

fasting plasma glucose (FPG)

blood glucose determination obtained in the laboratory after fasting for more than 8
hours. Although plasma levels are specified in diagnostic criteria, blood glucose
levels, which are slightly higher than plasma levels, are more commonly used

Glycated hemoglobin (glycosylated hemoglobin, Hgb A1C or A1C)

a long-term measure of glucose control that is a result of glucose attaching to
hemoglobin for the life of the red blood cell (120 days). The goal of diabetes therapy
is a normal to near-normal level of glycolated hemoglobin, the same as in the
nondiabetic population.

hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS)

a metabolic disorder of type 2 diabetes resulting from a relative insulin deficiency
initiated by an intercurrent illness that raises the demand for insulin; associated with
polyuria and severe dehydration

hypoglycemia
low blood glucose level (less than 60 mg/dL [less than 2.7 mmol/L])

insulin
a hormone secreted by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas that is
necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats; a deficiency of
insulin results in diabetes mellitus

ketone
a highly acidic substance formed when the liver breaks down free fatty acids in the
absence of insulin. The result is diabetic ketoacidosis.

medical nutrition therapy (MNT)

nutritional therapy prescribed by the physician for management of diabetes

nephropathy
a long-term complication of diabetes in which the kidney cells are damaged;
characterized by microalbuminuria in early stages and progressing to end-stage renal
disease
neuropathy
a long-term complication of diabetes resulting from damage to the nerve cell.

retinopathy
a long-term complication of diabetes in which the microvascular system of the eye is
damaged