Question

In type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus, A. hypertriglyceridemia does not occur. B. ketoacidosis in the untreated state is always present. C. \(\beta\) -cells of the pancreas are no longer able to make any insulin. D. may be accompanied by high levels of insulin in the blood. E. severe weight loss always occurs.

Short answer

a. Hypertriglyceridemia does not occur. b. Ketoacidosis is always present in the untreated state. c. The pancreatic beta-cells can no longer produce any insulin. d. May be accompanied by high levels of insulin in the blood. e. Severe weight loss always occurs. Answer: d. May be accompanied by high levels of insulin in the blood.

Step-by-step solution

Overview of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, in which the body fails to use insulin properly, and progressive loss of insulin secretion by pancreatic \(\beta\)-cells. The most common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. Treatment mainly involves lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, and may include medications to help maintain blood sugar levels. Now let's analyze each option:

Option A

Hypertriglyceridemia is a medical condition in which the levels of triglycerides in the blood are abnormally high. It may be related to type 2 diabetes mellitus, as insulin resistance can contribute to high triglyceride levels. Thus, stating that hypertriglyceridemia does not occur is incorrect.

Option B

Ketoacidosis is a dangerous condition in which the body starts breaking down fat at an extremely high rate, producing acidic substances called ketones. It is more commonly associated with type 1 diabetes, where there is a lack of insulin due to the destruction of the pancreatic \(\beta\)-cells. In type 2 diabetes mellitus, it is not always present, especially in the untreated state.

Option C

In type 2 diabetes mellitus, the \(\beta\)-cells of the pancreas are still able to produce insulin, but with a reduced efficiency due to insulin resistance and/or decreased secretion over time. This means that there may still be some insulin production, so it is not accurate to say that they can no longer make any insulin.

Option D

In type 2 diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance can lead to compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which means that there are high levels of insulin in the blood as the body tries to overcome the resistance and maintain normal blood sugar levels. This statement is accurate and reflects the situation observed in T2DM patients.

Option E

Severe weight loss is not a consistent symptom of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Although some patients may experience weight loss due to the body's inability to use glucose properly, many patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are overweight or obese. Weight loss may happen in some cases, but it is not a universal symptom that always occurs in T2DM patients. Based on the analysis of all the options, the correct answer is: D. may be accompanied by high levels of insulin in the blood.