Diabetes mellitus im kindes- und jugendalter

Abstract

In contrast to adults Diabetes mellitus type 1 (DMT1) is the most frequent form of diabetes mellitus during childhood and adolescence (> 95%). After diagnosis, the management of these DMT1-patients should take place in specialized pediatric centers, not in a primary care setting. The lifelong substitution of insulin is the cornerstone of therapy, the form of insulin-therapy should be adapted according to the age of the patient (conventional, intensified or pump therapy). Diabetes education is also an essential part in the management of diabetes patients and their families. The ISPAD (International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes) recommended an HbA1c < 7,6% as good metabolic control, although it might be difficult to achieve this goal during different phases of life (eg. toddlers or puberty). The aim of diabetes education and management is o avoid acute, as well as diabetes-related late-complications and to acieve a normal physical and psychosocial development, as well as wellbeing. © Springer-Verlag 2007.