Disease of the exocrine pancreas (e.g., pancreatectomy, pancreatitis) can result in the development of diabetes. What are the characteristics of this type of diabetes?
- Both beta and alpha cells are affected, resulting in both insulin and glucagon deficiency.
- These patients require insulin and are at greater risk for hypoglycemia as a result of glucagon deficiency.
- Glucagon is also essential for the formation of ketone bodies.
- Without insulin, these patients develop hyperglycemia but are less likely to develop ketosis (i.e., diabetic ketoacidosis).
