Which of the following statements is NOT associated with Type II diabetes? options:
A) Can be characterized by exhaustion and failure of beta cells.
B) Associated with an increase in gluconeogenesis.
C) Always absolute loss of insulin production.
D) Characterized by a reduction in the number of insulin receptors and insulin resistance.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: C) Always absolute loss of insulin production.
Explanation (300 words):
Type II diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and a progressive dysfunction of pancreatic beta cells. Unlike Type I diabetes, where there is an autoimmune destruction of beta cells leading to an absolute loss of insulin, Type II diabetes typically begins with insulin resistance, followed by a relative insulin deficiency due to beta-cell exhaustion over time.
Let’s examine each option:
- A) Can be characterized by exhaustion and failure of beta cells – This is true. In the early stages of Type II diabetes, beta cells compensate for insulin resistance by producing more insulin. However, over time, these cells may become dysfunctional or depleted, leading to decreased insulin output.
- B) Associated with an increase in gluconeogenesis – This is also true. In Type II diabetes, insulin resistance affects the liver’s ability to regulate glucose production, often leading to increased hepatic gluconeogenesis (the process of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources), contributing to hyperglycemia.
- C) Always absolute loss of insulin production – This is false and thus the correct answer. In Type II diabetes, there is typically not an absolute loss of insulin production, especially in the early stages. Instead, there is a relative deficiency where insulin is produced but is either insufficient or poorly utilized due to insulin resistance. Absolute loss of insulin production is more characteristic of Type I diabetes.
- D) Characterized by a reduction in the number of insulin receptors and insulin resistance – This is correct. One of the key features of Type II diabetes is insulin resistance, which can occur due to a decrease in insulin receptor sensitivity or number, impairing glucose uptake in tissues like muscle and fat.
In conclusion, Option C is not associated with Type II diabetes and best distinguishes it from Type I diabetes.