Cognition and type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents

Abstract

IN BRIEF In children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, exposure to glycemic extremes (severe hypoglycemia, chronic hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis) overlaps with the time period of most active brain and cognitive development, leading to concerns that these children are at risk for cognitive side effects. This article summarizes the existing literature examining the impact of glycemic extremes on cognitive function and brain structure in youth with type 1 diabetes and points out areas for future research.