Pancreas

What is the gross anatomy of the pancreas like?

What does a pancreatic islet look like?

What is the role of insulin in blood regulation?

What is the role of glucagon in blood glucose regulation?

What are the different types of diabetes mellitus?

• Abnormally high blood glucose levels(hyperglycaemia)

• Type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus

• Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus

What would happen if abnormally high blood glucose (hyperglycaemia) was left untreated?

Could result in kidney damage, retinal damage, peripheral nerve damage, increased cardiovascular risk

What does type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus involve?

• 5-10% of cases; often diagnosed in childhood

• Pancreatic insulin production inadequate

• Insulin injection required

What does type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus involve?

• Most common; most often diagnosed in middle/older age

• Reduced tissue response to insulin

• Often managed with diet and exercise