Pathophysiology - Unit Test Ultimate Study Guide

Diabetes Mellitus

A group of metabolic disorders characterized by persistent hyperglycemia due to defects in insulin secretion, action, or both.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM)

A form of diabetes characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM)

A type of diabetes characterized by insulin resistance and progressive secretory defects in pancreatic beta cells.

Prediabetes

A condition defined by impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) indicating increased risk of developing diabetes.

Metabolic Syndrome

A cluster of metabolic risk factors linked to insulin resistance and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Polyuria

Excessive urination resulting from osmotic diuresis due to hyperglycemia.

Polydipsia

Excessive thirst induced by dehydration from polyuria.

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNKS)

A serious condition characterized by severe hyperglycemia without significant ketone production, primarily occurring in type 2 diabetes.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

A life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes caused by absolute insulin deficiency, leading to ketone bodies accumulation and metabolic acidosis.

Hypoglycemia

A condition where blood glucose levels fall below 70 mg/dL, causing symptoms like shakiness and confusion.

Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

A hemoglobin measure representing average blood glucose levels over the last 2-3 months, used for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes.

Cushing Syndrome

A clinical state resulting from chronic exposure to excessive systemic glucocorticoids.

Addison Disease

A condition resulting from the destruction of the adrenal cortex, leading to deficient production of glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and adrenal androgens.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone synthesizing in the hypothalamus that promotes water reabsorption in the kidneys to regulate body water balance.

Nephrotic Syndrome

A clinical syndrome characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and severe edema due to increased permeability of the glomerular membrane.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

An abrupt decline in renal function characterized by increased serum creatinine and disturbances in urine output.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

A long-term condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function, documented for 3 or more months.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered in the kidneys, typically around 120 mL/min in healthy adults.

Hypertension

Elevated blood pressure that can lead to serious health complications like heart disease and stroke.

Hyponatremia

A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, which can result from excessive water retention.

Hyperkalemia

An elevated level of potassium in the blood, often seen in conditions like Addison's disease and renal failure.

Diabetic Retinopathy

A diabetes complication that affects the eyes, resulting in potential vision loss due to damage to the retinal blood vessels.

Diabetic Nephropathy

A kidney-related complication of diabetes that can lead to renal failure.

Cardiovascular Disease

A group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, often associated with diabetes mellitus.