1
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Sharifi Y, Ebrahimpur M, Tamehrizadeh SS. Hypoglycemic unawareness: challenges, triggers, and recommendations in patients with hypoglycemic unawareness: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2022; 16:283. [PMID: 35858952 PMCID: PMC9301883 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-022-03498-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypoglycemia is a fairly common complication in diabetic patients, particularly in those on insulin therapy. Hypoglycemia symptoms are classified into two types: autonomic and neuroglycopenic symptoms. If a person develops neuroglycopenic symptoms before the appearance of autonomic symptoms or is asymptomatic until blood sugar levels are very low, the patient will develop hypoglycemic unawareness (HU). Case presentation A 25-year-old Iranian woman with HU presented with a severe hypoglycemic episode. This episode was characterized by loss of consciousness and focal neural deficits, which were unusual symptoms in the patient, who was a medical intern with type 1 diabetes and currently being treated with regular and NPH insulin. Conclusions Hypoglycemia is a common complication in diabetic patients receiving oral or insulin therapy. A patient who is unaware of their condition may experience severe and potentially fatal episodes. These incidents can negatively affect their daily lives as well as their careers and jobs. Hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure is a possible cause for patients with multiple episodes of severe hypoglycemia. IThe use of a continuous glucose monitoring device with an alarm, if available, can be an excellent option for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Sharifi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, First Floor, No 10, Jalal-Al-Ahmad Street, North Kargar Avenue, Tehran, 14117-13137, Iran. .,Radiology Department, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahbube Ebrahimpur
- Elderly Health Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Pacaud D, Hermann JM, Karges B, Rosenbauer J, Danne T, Dürr R, Herbst A, Lindauer S, Müther S, Pötzsch S, Raile K, Witsch M, Holl RW. Risk of recurrent severe hypoglycemia remains associated with a past history of severe hypoglycemia up to 4 years: Results from a large prospective contemporary pediatric cohort of the DPV initiative. Pediatr Diabetes 2018; 19:493-500. [PMID: 29218766 DOI: 10.1111/pedi.12610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In a contemporary cohort of youth with type 1 diabetes, we examined the interval between episodes of severe hypoglycemia (SH) as a risk factor for recurrent SH or hypoglycemic coma (HC). METHODS This was a large longitudinal observational study. Using the DPV Diabetes Prospective follow-up data, we analyzed frequency and timing of recurrent SH (defined as requiring assistance from another person) and HC (loss of consciousness or seizures) in 14 177 youths with type 1 diabetes aged <20 years and at least 5 years of follow-up. RESULTS Among 14 177 patients with type 1 diabetes, 72% (90%) had no, 14% (6.8%) had 1 and 14% (3.2%) >1 SH (HC). SH or HC in the last year of observation was highest with SH in the previous year (odds ratio [OR] 4.7 [CI 4.0-5.5]/4.6 [CI 3.6-6.0]), but remained elevated even 4 years after an episode (OR 2.0 [CI 1.6-2.7]/2.2 [CI 1.5-3.1]). The proportion of patients who experienced SH or HC during the last year of observation was highest with SH/HC recorded during the previous year (23% for SH and 13% for HC) and lowest in those with no event (4.6% for SH and 2% for HC) in the initial 4 years of observation. CONCLUSIONS Even 4 years after an episode of SH/HC, risk for SH/HC remains higher compared to children who never experienced SH/HC. Clinicians should continue to regularly track hypoglycemia history at every visit, adjust diabetes education and therapy in order to avoid recurrences.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pacaud
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,Department of Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada.,Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, ZIBMT, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - J M Hermann
- Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, ZIBMT, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Munich, Germany
| | - B Karges
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical Faculty, German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - J Rosenbauer
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Munich, Germany.,German Diabetes Center, Institute for Biometrics and Epidemiology, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - T Danne
- Diabetes Centre for Children and Adolescents, Children's and Youth Hospital "AUF DER BULT", Hannover, Germany
| | - R Dürr
- Department of Children and Adolescent Medicine, Rems-Murr-Clinics, Winnenden, Germany
| | - A Herbst
- Center for Paediatrics, Medical Clinic Leverkusen, Leverkusen, Germany
| | - S Lindauer
- Department for Children and Adolescent Medicine, Hospital Barmherzige Schwestern Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - S Müther
- Diabetes Center for Children and Adolescent, DRK Clinics Berlin Westend, Berlin, Germany
| | - S Pötzsch
- Department for Children and Adolescent Medicine, Helios Vogtland Clinic Plauen, Plauen, Germany
| | - K Raile
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Charité Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Witsch
- Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Clinique Pediatrie, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - R W Holl
- Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, ZIBMT, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.,German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Munich, Germany
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Chin SO, Rhee SY, Chon S, Baik SH, Park Y, Nam MS, Lee KW, Chun KH, Woo JT, Kim YS. Hypoglycemia is associated with dementia in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An analysis based on the Korea National Diabetes Program Cohort. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2016; 122:54-61. [PMID: 27810686 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2016.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
AIM Although hypoglycemia is associated with cognitive dysfunction, including dementia, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), the data are equivocal. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between hypoglycemia, dementia, and other cognitive dysfunctions. METHODS This was a prospective observational study based upon the Korea National Diabetes Program (KNDP). Among the 4540 participants in the KNDP cohort, individuals aged ⩾60years without any history of hypoglycemia or cognitive dysfunction (n=1957) were included. Nationally representative data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service of Korea claim database were used to obtain a more precise determination of patient outcome. RESULTS During a mean follow-up period of 3.4±0.9years, 118 subjects experienced hypoglycemia-related events. The incidence of dementia and cognitive dysfunction was 7.5 cases per 1000 person-years (PY) and 0.61 cases per 1000 PY, respectively. In the subjects who experienced hypoglycemic events (relative to those who did not), the incidence of dementia was significantly higher (P=0.0139), but the incidence of cognitive dysfunction was not (P=0.1106). Hypoglycemic events were associated with dementia (HR, 2.689; 95% CI, 1.080-6.694, P=0.0335) following multiple adjustments. There was also a significant linear trend toward an increased dementia risk commensurate with an increasing number of hypoglycemic events (P=0.0286). CONCLUSIONS Hypoglycemia is significantly associated with the risk of dementia in Korean type 2 DM patients aged ⩾60years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Ouk Chin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Youl Rhee
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Chon
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sei Hyun Baik
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongsoo Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Suk Nam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan Woo Lee
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Hong Chun
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Taek Woo
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Seol Kim
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Kristensen PL, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Due-Andersen R, Høi-Hansen T, Grimmeshave L, Lyssenko V, Groop L, Holst JJ, Vaag AA, Thorsteinsson B. Impact of the TCF7L2 genotype on risk of hypoglycaemia and glucagon secretion during hypoglycaemia. Endocr Connect 2016; 5:53-60. [PMID: 27758844 PMCID: PMC5097143 DOI: 10.1530/ec-16-0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In healthy carriers of the T allele of the transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2), fasting plasma glucagon concentrations are lower compared with those with the C allele. We hypothesised that presence of the T allele is associated with a diminished glucagon response during hypoglycaemia and a higher frequency of severe hypoglycaemia (SH) in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). MATERIAL AND METHODS This is a post hoc study of an earlier prospective observational study of SH and four mechanistic studies of physiological responses to hypoglycaemia. 269 patients with T1DM were followed in a one-year observational study. A log-linear negative binomial model was applied with events of SH as dependent variable and TCF7L2 alleles as explanatory variable. In four experimental studies including 65 people, TCF7L2 genotyping was done and plasma glucagon concentration during experimental hypoglycaemia was determined. RESULTS Incidences of SH were TT 0.54, TC 0.98 and CC 1.01 episodes per patient-year with no significant difference between groups. During experimental hypoglycaemia, the TCF7L2 polymorphism did not influence glucagon secretion. DISCUSSION Patients with T1DM carrying the T allele of the TCF7L2 polymorphism do not exhibit diminished glucagon response during hypoglycaemia and are not at increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia compared with carriers of the C allele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L Kristensen
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Pedersen-Bjergaard
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Due-Andersen
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Lægerne på EllemarksvejKøge, Denmark
| | - Thomas Høi-Hansen
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of CardiologyHerlev-Gentofte University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Lise Grimmeshave
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk A/SSøborg, Denmark
| | - Valeriya Lyssenko
- Steno Diabetes CenterGentofte, Denmark
- Lund University Diabetes CentreSkåne University Hospital, Malmø, Sweden
| | - Leif Groop
- Lund University Diabetes CentreSkåne University Hospital, Malmø, Sweden
- Finnish Institute for Molecular Medicine (FIMM)Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jens J Holst
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical SciencesNNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, The Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan A Vaag
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of EndocrinologyCopenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birger Thorsteinsson
- Department of CardiologyNephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Abstract
Hypoglycaemia is a frequent adverse effect of treatment of diabetes mellitus with insulin and sulphonylureas. Fear of hypoglycaemia alters self-management of diabetes mellitus and prevents optimal glycaemic control. Mild (self-treated) and severe (requiring help) hypoglycaemia episodes are more common in type 1 diabetes mellitus but people with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes mellitus are also exposed to frequent hypoglycaemic events, many of which occur during sleep. Hypoglycaemia can disrupt many everyday activities such as driving, work performance and leisure pursuits. In addition to accidents and physical injury, the morbidity of hypoglycaemia involves the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. Whereas coma and seizures are well-recognized neurological sequelae of hypoglycaemia, much interest is currently focused on the potential for hypoglycaemia to cause dangerous and life-threatening cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias and myocardial ischaemia, and whether recurrent severe hypoglycaemia can cause permanent cognitive impairment or promote cognitive decline and accelerate the onset of dementia in middle-aged and elderly people with diabetes mellitus. Prevention of hypoglycaemia is an important part of diabetes mellitus management and strategies include patient education, glucose monitoring, appropriate adjustment of diet and medications in relation to everyday circumstances including physical exercise, and the application of new technologies such as real-time continuous glucose monitoring, modified insulin pumps and the artificial pancreas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M Frier
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
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Færch LH, Thorsteinsson B, Tarnow L, Holst JJ, Kjær T, Kanters J, Larroude C, Dela F, Pedersen-Bjergaard U. Effects of angiotensin II receptor blockade on cerebral, cardiovascular, counter-regulatory, and symptomatic responses during hypoglycaemia in patients with type 1 diabetes. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2014; 16:1036-45. [DOI: 10.1177/1470320314529356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Louise H Færch
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital – Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Birger Thorsteinsson
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital – Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Tarnow
- HIH Research Unit, Nordsjællands Hospital – Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Health, University of Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Juul Holst
- NNF Centre for Basic Metabolic Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, the Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Troels Kjær
- Clinic of Neurophysiology, The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kanters
- Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital – Frederikssund, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Larroude
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital – Frederikssund, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Flemming Dela
- Xlab, Centre for Healthy Ageing, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Pedersen-Bjergaard
- Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, Nordsjællands Hospital – Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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7
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Kalra S, Mukherjee JJ, Venkataraman S, Bantwal G, Shaikh S, Saboo B, Das AK, Ramachandran A. Hypoglycemia: The neglected complication. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2013; 17:819-34. [PMID: 24083163 PMCID: PMC3784865 DOI: 10.4103/2230-8210.117219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoglycemia is an important complication of glucose-lowering therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus. Attempts made at intensive glycemic control invariably increases the risk of hypoglycemia. A six-fold increase in deaths due to diabetes has been attributed to patients experiencing severe hypoglycemia in comparison to those not experiencing severe hypoglycemia Repeated episodes of hypoglycemia can lead to impairment of the counter-regulatory system with the potential for development of hypoglycemia unawareness. The short- and long-term complications of diabetes related hypoglycemia include precipitation of acute cerebrovascular disease, myocardial infarction, neurocognitive dysfunction, retinal cell death and loss of vision in addition to health-related quality of life issues pertaining to sleep, driving, employment, recreational activities involving exercise and travel. There is an urgent need to examine the clinical spectrum and burden of hypoglycemia so that adequate control measures can be implemented against this neglected life-threatening complication. Early recognition of hypoglycemia risk factors, self-monitoring of blood glucose, selection of appropriate treatment regimens with minimal or no risk of hypoglycemia and appropriate educational programs for healthcare professionals and patients with diabetes are the major ways forward to maintain good glycemic control, minimize the risk of hypoglycemia and thereby prevent long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kalra
- Bharti Research Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Jagat Jyoti Mukherjee
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Ganapathi Bantwal
- Department of Endocrinology, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, India
| | - Shehla Shaikh
- Department of Endocrinology, Prince Aly Khan Hospital and Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Banshi Saboo
- Department of Diabetology, Dia Care Diabetes Care Centre, Ahmedabad, India
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hypoglycaemia is a side effect caused by some therapies for type 2 diabetes, which can cause physical, social and psychological harm. Hypoglycaemia also prevents attainment of treatment goals and satisfactory glycaemic control. AREAS COVERED The risk of hypoglycaemia associated with commonly prescribed therapies, including metformin, sulphonylureas, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 enzyme (DPP-4) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and thiazolidinediones, is reviewed in this paper (insulin-induced hypoglycaemia is not included). Other medications that are frequently co-prescribed in type 2 diabetes are also discussed, including anti-hypertensive drugs, antibiotics and fibrates, along with various important patient-related risk factors. EXPERT OPINION Hypoglycaemia is a common and potentially dangerous side effect of some medications used for type 2 diabetes. The risk of hypoglycaemia should always be considered when selecting and implementing a therapy, with a focus on the individual. Future research into new therapies should measure the frequency of hypoglycaemia prospectively and accurately. Hypoglycaemia has been shown to be a potentially life-threatening metabolic stress; therefore therapies that effectively manage diabetes without the risk of hypoglycaemia are likely to be favoured in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Inkster
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Department of Diabetes, 51 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK
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Ringholm L, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B, Damm P, Mathiesen ER. Hypoglycaemia during pregnancy in women with Type 1 diabetes. Diabet Med 2012; 29:558-66. [PMID: 22313112 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2012.03604.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To explore incidence, risk factors, possible pathophysiological factors and clinical management of hypoglycaemia during pregnancy in women with Type 1 diabetes. METHODS Literature review. RESULTS In women with Type 1 diabetes, severe hypoglycaemia occurs three to five times more frequently in early pregnancy than in the period prior to pregnancy, whereas in the third trimester the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia is lower than in the year preceding pregnancy. The frequency distribution of severe hypoglycaemia is much skewed, as 10% of the pregnant women account for 60% of all recorded events. Risk factors for severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy include a history with severe hypoglycaemia in the year preceding pregnancy, impaired hypoglycaemia awareness, long duration of diabetes, low HbA(1c) in early pregnancy, fluctuating plasma glucose values (≤ 3.9 mmol/l or ≥ 10.0 mmol/l) and excessive use of supplementary insulin injections between meals. Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting seem not to be contributing factors. CONCLUSIONS Striving for near-normoglycaemia with focus on reduction of plasma glucose fluctuations during pregnancy should have high priority among clinicians with the persistent aim of improving pregnancy outcome among women with Type 1 diabetes. Pre-conception counselling, carbohydrate counting, use of insulin analogues, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (insulin pump) therapy and real-time continuous glucose monitoring with alarms for low glucose values might be relevant tools to obtain near-normoglycaemia without episodes of severe hypoglycaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Ringholm
- Center for Pregnant Women with Diabetes, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen Department of Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Rogers HA, de Zoysa N, Amiel SA. Patient experience of hypoglycaemia unawareness in Type 1 diabetes: are patients appropriately concerned? Diabet Med 2012; 29:321-7. [PMID: 21913969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2011.03444.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Risk of severe hypoglycaemia is increased by absence of subjective awareness of hypoglycaemia and reduced by avoidance of minor hypoglycaemia. For many, problems persist despite educational strategies that work for others. We explored psychological factors that might inhibit the efforts of an individual in hypoglycaemia avoidance. METHODS People with Type 1 diabetes and hypoglycaemia unawareness gave semi-structured interviews exploring their perceptions and experiences of their condition. Identified factors were grouped into categories and analysed to establish links and form a grounded theory in a constant comparative analysis. A questionnaire was devised from the qualitative analysis to identify patients with problematic beliefs about their hypoglycaemia. RESULTS Saturation (no new themes emerging) was reached with 17 patients. Responses fell into two groups: high concern and low concern regarding hypoglycaemia unawareness. Those in the first group described severe hypoglycaemia as aversive and wanted to regain awareness. The second group included three patients in whom unawareness was not associated with severe hypoglycaemia, nevertheless unhelpful attitudes which inhibited hypoglycaemia avoidance were expressed. Responses from this group fell into categories: (1) normalizing the presence of unawareness; (2) underestimating its consequences; (3) wanting to avoiding the 'sick role'; and (4) overestimating the consequences of hyperglycaemia. CONCLUSIONS A qualitative analysis of patient interviews identified deficits in education, technology and motivation in hypoglycaemia unawareness. Interventions can therefore be tailored to target underlying problems that prevent individual patients from regaining awareness. A brief assessment tool was devised to categorize patients' hypoglycaemia unawareness accordingly. Psychological interventions should be developed to address the problems of 'low concern' regarding hypoglycaemia unawareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Rogers
- Diabetes Research Group, King's College London, London, UK.
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11
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Færch L, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B. High serum ACE activity predicts severe hypoglycaemia over time in patients with type 1 diabetes. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2011; 71:620-4. [DOI: 10.3109/00365513.2011.604132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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12
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Johannesen J, Svensson J, Bergholdt R, Eising S, Gramstrup H, Frandsen E, Dick-Nielsen J, Hansen L, Pociot F, Mortensen HB. Hypoglycemia, S-ACE and ACE genotypes in a Danish nationwide population of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Pediatr Diabetes 2011; 12:100-6. [PMID: 20546161 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-5448.2010.00660.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE High S-ACE levels have been shown to predispose to increased risk of hypoglycemia, however; some inconsistency relates to the risk of the ACE genotype. We investigated the association between S-ACE level at diagnosis and ACE genotype to long-term risk of severe hypoglycemia in more than 1000 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes being part of the Danish Registry of Childhood diabetes over a 10-yr period. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The Registry provided annual registration of clinical data, e.g., HbA1c, blood glucose monitoring, insulin type and dosage and acute diabetic complications (hypoglycemia and DKA). A BioBank coupled to the Registry comprised serum for measuring S-ACE levels and DNA for ACE genotyping. RESULTS A total of 1037 individuals were included, aged 9.97 yr (SD 3.84). A total of 622 severe hypoglycemic episodes were observed in 270 individuals. Associations to increased risk of hypoglycemia generated from a negative binominal model were long diabetes duration (p < 0.0001) and high S-ACE level (p = 0.0497) when adjusted for ACE genotype. In the stratified analysis, S-ACE and insulin dosage were associated with hypoglycemia in girls (p = 0.026 and 0.028, respectively). An association of S-ACE level to ACE genotype was identified; however, no difference in the frequency of hypoglycemia, diabetes duration or HbA1c was demonstrated between ACE genotypes. CONCLUSION This large nationwide cohort has identified an increased risk for hypoglycemia associated with higher S-ACE level, however only in girls. A strong association was found between ACE genotype and S-ACE levels, but ACE genotype was not related to risk of hypoglycemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper Johannesen
- Department of Paediatrics, Glostrup University Hospital, DK-2600 Glostrup, Denmark.
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13
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme and angiotensin II receptor subtype 2 genotypes in type 1 diabetes and severe hypoglycaemia requiring emergency treatment: a case cohort study. Pharmacogenet Genomics 2010; 19:864-8. [PMID: 19820429 DOI: 10.1097/fpc.0b013e328331e67b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS In type 1 diabetes, individual susceptibility to severe hypoglycaemia is likely to be influenced by genetic factors. We have previously reported an association of the deletion (D-) allele of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and the A-allele of the angiotensin II receptor subtype 2 (AT2R) 1675 G>A polymorphism with risk of severe hypoglycaemia in such patients. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that these alleles are more frequent in patients suffering from the most severe episodes of hypoglycaemia requiring medical emergency treatment. METHODS The case cohort study consisted of 108 cases of type 1 diabetic patients with severe hypoglycaemia requiring medical emergency treatment during a 1-year period and 262 consecutive controls without such events. ACE I/D and AT2R 1675G>A genotype distributions were compared between cases and controls. RESULTS The proportion of D-allele carriers was higher amongst cases than controls (83 vs. 73%; P=0.032). In contrast, AT2R genotype distribution was similar in cases and controls. In a multiple regression analysis, D-allele carriage remained a significant risk factor for being a case [odds ratio: 1.9 (1.0-3.6)] together with male sex, impaired symptomatic awareness of hypoglycaemia and presence of nephropathy. CONCLUSION The D-allele of the ACE gene is associated with severe hypoglycaemia requiring emergency treatment in type 1 diabetic patients with preserved spontaneous ACE activity. This supports the association between high ACE activity and occurrence of severe hypoglycaemia.
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14
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Kristensen PL, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Schalkwijk C, Olsen NV, Thorsteinsson B. Erythropoietin and vascular endothelial growth factor as risk markers for severe hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes. Eur J Endocrinol 2010; 163:391-8. [PMID: 20566589 DOI: 10.1530/eje-10-0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Circulating erythropoietin (EPO) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increase during hypoglycaemia and may represent protective hormonal counter-regulatory responses. We tested the hypothesis that low levels of EPO and VEGF are associated with a higher frequency of severe hypoglycaemia in a cohort of patients with type 1 diabetes. DESIGN Prospective observational follow-up study. METHODS Totally 219 patients with type 1 diabetes (41% females, age 46+/-13 years (mean+/-s.d.), duration of diabetes 21+/-12 years, and HbAlc 8.5+/-1.1%) were followed in a 1-year observational study. Plasma EPO and serum VEGF levels were measured at baseline with ELISA. Events of severe hypoglycaemia defined by third party assistance were recorded and validated in telephone interviews within 24 h. RESULTS Totally 235 episodes of severe hypoglycaemia (1.1 episodes per patient-year) were reported by 82 patients (37%). At baseline, plasma EPO was 8.6 (3.1-34.3) U/l (median (range)), and serum VEGF was 52.2 (6.6-337) pg/ml. The levels of EPO and VEGF were not associated with frequency of severe and mild hypoglycaemia. The levels of EPO were not associated with age, sex, duration of diabetes, body mass index, HbAlc, C-peptide level or hypoglycaemia awareness status. The levels of VEGF were positively associated with age and female sex. CONCLUSIONS Although several studies suggest that VEGF and EPO may affect brain function during hypoglycaemia, this study does not support random VEGF or EPO levels to determine future risk of severe hypoglycaemia in people with type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P L Kristensen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, DK-3400 Hillerød, Denmark.
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15
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Choudhary P, Geddes J, Freeman JV, Emery CJ, Heller SR, Frier BM. Frequency of biochemical hypoglycaemia in adults with Type 1 diabetes with and without impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia: no identifiable differences using continuous glucose monitoring. Diabet Med 2010; 27:666-72. [PMID: 20546285 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2010.03006.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia (IAH) is a major risk factor for severe hypoglycaemia in Type 1 diabetes. Although biochemical hypoglycaemia is asserted to be more frequent in IAH, this has not been estimated accurately. The aim of this study was to use Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to quantify hypoglycaemia in IAH and evaluate its use in identifying impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia. METHODS Ninety-five patients with Type 1 diabetes were classified as having normal (n = 74) or impaired awareness (n = 21) using an established method of assessing hypoglycaemia awareness. Hypoglycaemia exposure was assessed prospectively over 9-12 months using weekly 4-point capillary home blood glucose monitoring (HBGM), 5 days of CGM and prospective reporting of severe hypoglycaemia. The frequencies of biochemical and severe hypoglycaemia were compared in patients with normal and impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia. RESULTS Patients with impaired awareness had a 3-fold higher incidence of severe hypoglycaemia than those with normal awareness [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 3.37 (95% CI 1.30-8.7); P = 0.01] and 1.6-fold higher incidence of hypoglycaemia on weekly HBGM [IRR 1.63 (95% CI 1.09-2.44); P = 0.02]. No significant differences were observed with CGM [IRR for sensor glucose < or = 3.0 mmol/l 1.47 (95% CI 0.91-2.39); P = 0.12; IRR for sensor glucose < or = 2.2 mmol/l 1.23 (95% CI 0.76-1.98); P = 0.40]. CONCLUSIONS Patients with Type 1 diabetes with impaired awareness had a 3-fold higher risk of severe hypoglycaemia and 1.6-fold higher incidence of biochemical hypoglycaemia measured with weekly glucose monitoring compared with normal awareness, but 5 days of CGM did not differentiate those with impaired from those with normal awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Choudhary
- Academic Department of Diabetes, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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16
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Bie-Olsen LG, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Kjær TW, Lonsdale MN, Law I, Thorsteinsson B. Differences in cortical and pituitary activity in response to hypoglycaemia and cognitive testing in healthy men with different basal activity of the renin-angiotensin system. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2010; 11:173-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1470320310364182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. High renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity has been associated with a high risk of severe hypoglycaemia in patients with type 1 diabetes and with cognitive deterioration during experimental hypoglycaemia in healthy subjects. The aim of this study was to describe possible differences in cerebral activity during hypoglycaemia and cognitive testing in two groups of healthy men with different basal RAS activity. Methods. Ten healthy men with high RAS activity and 10 with low activity underwent six oxygen-15-labelled water positron emission tomography scans: twice during normoglycaemia, twice during insulin-induced hypoglycaemia and twice during post-hypoglycaemia. During the scans, the subjects performed a computer-based reaction time test. Results. Occipital areas were consistently more activated in the low RAS group than in the high RAS group throughout all three conditions. During normoglycaemia, the frontal region was more activated in the low RAS group than in the high RAS group. During hypoglycaemia, the high RAS group was more activated in the pituitary gland than the low RAS group. Conclusion. Basal RAS activity influenced cerebral activity. Low RAS was associated with more pronounced cortical activation in all glycaemic conditions. High RAS was associated with pituitary activation during hypoglycaemia and post-hypoglycaemia, and this was associated with a greater growth hormone response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise G Bie-Olsen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark,
| | - Ulrik Pedersen-Bjergaard
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Troels W Kjær
- Clinic of Neurophysiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Markus N Lonsdale
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ian Law
- PET and Cyclotron Unit, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birger Thorsteinsson
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
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17
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Association between regional cerebral blood flow during hypoglycemia and genetic and phenotypic traits of the renin-angiotensin system. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2009; 29:1790-5. [PMID: 19584889 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2009.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The risk of severe hypoglycemia in patients with type I diabetes and high basal activity in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is significantly higher than in patients with low basal RAS activity. In healthy men, we tested the hypothesis that differences in spontaneous RAS activity are associated with differences in cerebral activity responses during mild hypoglycemia. A total of 10 healthy men with high and 10 with low spontaneous RAS activity were selected. An H(2)(15)O-PET (H(2)(15)O-positron emission tomography) study was conducted with a series of six scans, i.e., two during normoglycemia, two during hypoglycemia, and two after hypoglycemia. The mean plasma glucose concentration was similar in both the groups (i.e., 2.1 mmol/L (s.d.: 0.4) in the low RAS group and 2.2 mmol/L (s.d.: 0.4) in the high RAS group (P=0.47)). The high RAS group has lower cerebral activity in the frontal area and a higher cerebral activity in the entorhinal area that expanded to include the parahippocampal gyrus after hypoglycemia. Our findings suggest that the high RAS group to a lesser extent than the low RAS group activates areas involving executive function that may explain the correlation between high basal RAS activity and risk of severe hypoglycemia in type I diabetes.
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18
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Kristensen PL, Høi-Hansen T, Boomsma F, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B. Vascular endothelial growth factor during hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: relation to cognitive function and renin-angiotensin system activity. Metabolism 2009; 58:1430-8. [PMID: 19573885 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2009.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2008] [Accepted: 04/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In healthy adults, levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increase in response to mild hypoglycemia. VEGF is implicated in glucose transport over the blood-brain barrier, and the increase during hypoglycemia has been positively correlated with preservation of cognitive function during hypoglycemia. High activity in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is associated with an increased risk of severe hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Renin-angiotensin system possibly exerts its mechanism in hypoglycemia via VEGF. We studied the impact of mild hypoglycemia on plasma VEGF in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and high or low RAS activity and analyzed associations between VEGF levels and cognitive function during hypoglycemia. Eighteen patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus-9 with high and 9 with low RAS activity-underwent a single-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study with either mild hypoglycemia or stable glycemia. Cognitive function was assessed by the California Cognitive Assessment Package and the Alzheimer Quick Test. Nadir plasma glucose was 2.2 (0.3) mmol/L. During the control study, plasma VEGF did not change. During hypoglycemia, plasma VEGF increased from 39 to 58 pg/L in the high-RAS group (P = .004) and from 76 to 109 pg/L in the low-RAS group (P = .01), with no difference between RAS groups (P = .9). A weak association between reduced preservation of cognitive function during hypoglycemia and low VEGF response was observed. Plasma VEGF levels increase during mild, short-term hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The VEGF response is not dependent on RAS activity and only weakly associated with preservation of cognitive function during hypoglycemia. Thus, the previously described association between low RAS activity and better cognitive performance during hypoglycemia does not seem to be mediated by VEGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lommer Kristensen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, DK-3400 Hillerød, Denmark.
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Høi-Hansen T, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Andersen RD, Kristensen PL, Thomsen C, Kjaer T, Høgenhaven H, Smed A, Holst JJ, Dela F, Boomsma F, Thorsteinsson B. Cognitive performance, symptoms and counter-regulation during hypoglycaemia in patients with type 1 diabetes and high or low renin-angiotensin system activity. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2009; 10:216-29. [PMID: 19717500 DOI: 10.1177/1470320309343007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High basal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity is associated with increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes. We tested whether this might be explained by more pronounced cognitive dysfunction during hypoglycaemia in patients with high RAS activity than in patients with low RAS activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine patients with type 1 diabetes and high and nine with low RAS activity were subjected to hypoglycaemia and euglycaemia in a cross-over study using an intravenous insulin infusion protocol. Cognitive function, electroencephalography, auditory evoked potentials and hypoglycaemic symptoms were recorded. RESULTS At a hypoglycaemic nadir of 2.2 (SD 0.3) mmol/L the high RAS group displayed significant deterioration in cognitive performance during hypoglycaemia in the three most complex reaction time tasks. In the low RAS group, hypoglycaemia led to cognitive dysfunction in only one reaction time task. The high RAS group reported lower symptom scores during hypoglycaemia than the low RAS group, suggesting poorer hypoglycaemia awareness. CONCLUSION High RAS activity is associated with increased cognitive dysfunction and blunted symptoms during mild hypoglycaemia compared to low RAS activity. This may explain why high RAS activity is a risk factor for severe hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Høi-Hansen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
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20
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Kristensen PL, Høi-Hansen T, Olsen NV, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B. Erythropoietin during hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes: relation to basal renin-angiotensin system activity and cognitive function. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2009; 85:75-84. [PMID: 19211168 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2009.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2008] [Revised: 01/02/2009] [Accepted: 01/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Preservation of cognitive function during hypoglycaemic episodes is crucial for patients with insulin-treated diabetes to avoid severe hypoglycaemic events. Erythropoietin has neuroprotective potential. However, the role of erythropoietin during hypoglycaemia is unclear. The aim of the study was to explore plasma erythropoietin response to hypoglycaemia and the relationship to basal renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity and cognitive function. METHODS We performed a single-blinded, controlled, cross-over study with induced hypoglycaemia or maintained glycaemic level. Nine patients with type 1 diabetes with high and nine with low activity in RAS were studied. Hypoglycaemia was induced using a standardized insulin-infusion. RESULTS Overall, erythropoietin concentrations increased during hypoglycaemia. In the high RAS group erythropoietin rose 29% (p=0.032) whereas no significant response was observed in the low RAS group (7% increment; p=0.43). Independently, both hypoglycaemia and high RAS activity were associated with higher levels of erythropoietin (p=0.02 and 0.04, respectively). Low plasma erythropoietin at baseline was associated with poorer cognitive performance during hypoglycaemia. CONCLUSIONS Hypoglycaemia triggers a rise in plasma erythropoietin in patients with type 1 diabetes. The response is influenced by basal RAS activity. Erythropoietin may carry a neuroprotective potential during hypoglycaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lommer Kristensen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, DK-3400, Hillerød, Denmark.
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21
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Nielsen LR, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B, Boomsma F, Damm P, Mathiesen ER. Severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy in women with type 1 diabetes: possible role of renin-angiotensin system activity? Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2009; 84:61-7. [PMID: 19188000 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2009.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2008] [Revised: 12/30/2008] [Accepted: 01/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate whether increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia in early pregnancy is related to pregnancy-induced changes in renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activity in women with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). METHODS Severe hypoglycaemic events the year preceding pregnancy were recorded retrospectively in 107 consecutive pregnant women with T1DM. Events during pregnancy were recorded prospectively. Measurements of ACE, renin and angiotensinogen were determined at 8, 14, 21, 27 and 33 weeks and postpartum. RESULTS The rate of severe hypoglycaemia was 1.1 and 5.3 events/patient-year the year preceding pregnancy and in first trimester, respectively (p<0.0001). Levels of ACE, renin or angiotensinogen did not differ between women with and without severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy. Multivariate regression analysis identified a positive association between rate of severe hypoglycaemia the year preceding pregnancy and postpartum ACE activity (relative rate of severe hypoglycaemia above versus below median ACE activity: 4.4 (CI: 1.7-11.9), p=0.003). No association was found between severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy and renin angiotensin system activity at 8 weeks. CONCLUSIONS In early pregnancy increased RAS activity does not explain the 5-fold increase in severe hypoglycaemia in women with T1DM. A positive association between occurrence of severe hypoglycaemia and ACE activity outside pregnancy was demonstrated.
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22
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Due-Andersen R, Høi-Hansen T, Larroude CE, Olsen NV, Kanters JK, Boomsma F, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thorsteinsson B. Cardiac repolarization during hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetes: impact of basal renin-angiotensin system activity. Europace 2008; 10:860-7. [PMID: 18534966 DOI: 10.1093/europace/eun137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Hypoglycaemia-induced cardiac arrhythmias may be involved in the pathogenesis of the 'dead-in-bed syndrome' in patients with type 1 diabetes. Evidence suggests that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) influences the occurrence of arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to explore if basal RAS activity affects cardiac repolarization during hypoglycaemia, thereby potentially carrying prognostic information on risk of the 'dead-in-bed syndrome'. METHODS AND RESULTS Nine subjects with high RAS activity and nine subjects with low RAS activity were subjected to single-blinded placebo-controlled hypoglycaemia (nadir plasma glucose 2.4 mmol/L). QTc/QTcF and QT dynamics were registered by Holter monitoring. QTc prolonged during [8 (+/-2.3) ms, P < 0.01] and after [11 (+/-3) ms, P < 0.001] hypoglycaemia. Dynamic QT parameters reacted ambiguously. Low RAS activity was associated with a slightly more pronounced QT prolongation [6 (+/-3) ms, P = 0.04]. Adrenaline tended to increase more in the low-RAS group (P = 0.08) and was correlated to QTc (r = 0.67, P < 0.01) and QTcF (r = 0.58, P < 0.05) during hypoglycaemia. CONCLUSION Low basal RAS activity may be associated with a slightly more pronounced QT prolongation during hypoglycaemia, when compared with high RAS activity. The impact, however, is modest and the clinical consequence is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Due-Andersen
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Hillerød Hospital, Helsevej 2, DK-3400 Hillerød, Denmark.
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23
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Genetic variation and activity of the renin-angiotensin system and severe hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes. Am J Med 2008; 121:246.e1-8. [PMID: 18328310 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2007] [Revised: 11/25/2007] [Accepted: 12/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The deletion-allele of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene and elevated ACE activity are associated with increased risk of severe hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes. We explored whether genetic and phenotypic variations in other components of the renin-angiotensin system are similarly associated. METHODS Episodes of severe hypoglycemia were recorded in 171 consecutive type 1 diabetic outpatients during a 1-year follow-up. Participants were characterized at baseline by gene polymorphisms in angiotensinogen, ACE, angiotensin-II receptor types 1 (AT1R) and 2 (AT2R), and by plasma angiotensinogen concentration and serum ACE activity. RESULTS Three risk factors for severe hypoglycemia were identified: plasma angiotensinogen concentration in the upper quartile (relative rate [RR] vs. lower quartile 3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI,] 1.4-6.8), serum ACE activity in the upper quartile (RR vs. lower quartile 2.9, 95% CI, 1.3-6.2), and homo- or hemizygosity for the A-allele of the X chromosome-located AT2R 1675G/A polymorphism (RR vs. noncarriers 2.5, 95% CI, 1.4-5.0). The three risk factors contributed independently to prediction of severe hypoglycemia. A backward multiple regression analysis identified a high number of renin-angiotensin system-related risk factors and reduced ability to perceive hypoglycemic warning symptoms (impaired hypoglycemia awareness) as predictors of severe hypoglycemia. CONCLUSIONS High renin-angiotensin system activity and the A-allele of the AT2R 1675G/A polymorphism associate with high risk of severe hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes. A potential preventive effect of renin-angiotensin system blocking drugs in patients with recurrent severe hypoglycemia merits further investigation.
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Due-Andersen R, Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Høi-Hansen T, Olsen NV, Kistorp C, Faber J, Boomsma F, Thorsteinsson B. NT-pro-BNP during hypoglycemia and hypoxemia in normal subjects: impact of renin-angiotensin system activity. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2008; 104:1080-5. [PMID: 18258801 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01082.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a cardioprotective peptide released, together with the inactive NH(2)-terminal part of its prohormone (NT-pro-BNP), in response to different kinds of myocardial stress. Hypoglycemia and hypoxemia are conditions that threaten cellular function and hence potentially stimulate BNP release. BNP interacts with the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). The aim of this study was, therefore, to explore if basal RAS activity has an impact on NT-pro-BNP concentrations during myocardial stress induced by hypoglycemia and hypoxemia. From a cohort of 303 healthy young men, 10 subjects with high-RAS activity and 10 subjects with low-RAS activity (age 26 +/- 1 yr; mean +/- SE) were studied in a single-blinded, randomized, counterbalanced, crossover study on three occasions separated by at least 3 wk: 1) hypoglycemia (mean nadir plasma glucose 2.7 +/- 0.5 mmol/l), 2) hypoxemia (mean nadir Po(2) 5.8 +/- 0.5 kPa), and 3) normoglycemic normoxia (control). NT-pro-BNP was measured at baseline, during the stimuli, and in the recovery phase. Hypoxemia was associated with a 9% increase in NT-pro-BNP from 2.2 +/- 1.5 pmol/l at baseline to 2.4 +/- 1.5 pmol/l during hypoxemia (P < 0.001). Hypoglycemia did not affect the NT-pro-BNP level. RAS activity had no impact on NT-pro-BNP levels during hypoglycemia and hypoxemia. Hypoxemia, but not hypoglycemia, stimulates NT-pro-BNP. This indicates that cardiac defense mechanisms against hypoglycemia, if any, are probably different from those against hypoxemia. Basal RAS activity had no impact on NT-pro-BNP levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Due-Andersen
- Endocrinology Section, Division of Internal Medicine I, Hillerød Hospital, Helsevej 2, DK-3400 Hillerød, Denmark.
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25
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Pedersen-Bjergaard U, Thomsen CE, Høgenhaven H, Smed A, Kjær TW, Holst JJ, Dela F, Hilsted L, Frandsen E, Pramming S, Thorsteinsson B. Angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and cognitive impairment during hypoglycaemia in healthy humans. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2008; 9:37-48. [DOI: 10.3317/jraas.2008.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In type 1 diabetes increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia is associated with high angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. We tested in healthy humans the hypothesis that this association is explained by the reduced ability of subjects with high ACE activity to maintain normal cognitive function during hypoglycaemia. Methods: Sixteen healthy volunteers selected by either particularly high or low serum ACE activity were subjected to hypoglycaemia (plasma glucose 2.7 mmol/L). Cognitive function was assessed by choice reaction tests. Results: Despite a similar hypoglycaemic stimulus in the two groups, only the group with high ACE activity showed significant deterioration in cognitive performance during hypoglycaemia. In the high ACE group mean reaction time (MRT) in the most complex choice reaction task was prolonged and error rate (ER) was increased in contrast to the low ACE group. The total hypoglycaemic symptom response was greater in the high ACE group than in the low ACE group (p=0.031).There were no differences in responses of counterregulatory hormones or in concentrations of substrates between the groups. Conclusion: Healthy humans with high ACE activity are more susceptible to cognitive dysfunction and report higher symptom scores during mild hypoglycaemia than subjects with low ACE activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrik Pedersen-Bjergaard
- Endocrinology Section, Division of Internal Medicine I, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød, ulpebj@ noh.regionh.dk
| | - Carsten E Thomsen
- Department of Oral Pathology, Copenhagen School of Dentistry, Copenhagen
| | | | | | - Troels W Kjær
- Department of Neurophysiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Medical Physiology, , Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen
| | - Flemming Dela
- Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre, Department of Medical Physiology, University of Copenhagen
| | - Linda Hilsted
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen
| | - Erik Frandsen
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Glostrup University Hospital, Glostrup
| | | | - Birger Thorsteinsson
- Endocrinology Section, Division of Internal Medicine I, Hillerød Hospital, Hillerød
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Bulsara MK, Holman CDJ, van Bockxmeer FM, Davis EA, Gallego PH, Beilby JP, Palmer LJ, Choong C, Jones TW. The relationship between ACE genotype and risk of severe hypoglycaemia in a large population-based cohort of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Diabetologia 2007; 50:965-71. [PMID: 17333108 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-007-0613-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2006] [Accepted: 01/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Genetic factors may account for familial clustering related to diabetes complications. Studies have shown a significant relationship between the presence of the deletion (D) allele of the gene encoding ACE and risk of severe hypoglycaemia. This large prospective cohort study assesses this relationship in a large sample of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We studied 585 children and adolescents (mean age 11.9 +/- 4 years, 48.4% males). The frequency of severe hypoglycaemia (an event leading to loss of consciousness or seizure) was prospectively assessed over the 13-year period 1992-2004. Patients were seen with their parents every 3 months and data recorded at each visit. The ACE gene was detected using PCR. RESULTS In our cohort of 585 children, 186 (31.8%) had at least one episode of severe hypoglycaemia, and of these 28.0% had the II genotype, 48.9% had the ID genotype and 23.1% had the DD genotype. This was in agreement with the Hardy-Weinberg proportion. A total of 477 severe hypoglycaemic episodes was recorded with a total of 3,404 person-years of follow-up, giving a total incidence of 14 per 100 patient-years. No significant increase in risk for DD genotype (incidence rate ratio = 0.97, 95% CI 0.61-1.55) relative to II genotype was observed. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION This large prospective study concludes that the presence of the D allele of the ACE gene does not predict a significantly higher risk of severe hypoglycaemia in type 1 diabetic children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Bulsara
- School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Nedlands, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
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