From the Guidelines
The condition affecting pancreatic alpha cells is called type 3c diabetes or pancreatogenic diabetes, which is characterized by reduced glucagon secretion from the pancreatic α-cells. This disorder involves abnormal function of the alpha cells in the pancreatic islets, which are responsible for producing glucagon 1. Type 3c diabetes tends to be misclassified, usually as type 2 diabetes; however, there are important clinical and metabolic factors, which distinguish type 3c diabetes from other diabetes types 1. Some key features of type 3c diabetes include:
- Reduced glucagon secretion from the pancreatic α-cells
- Lower levels of pancreatic polypeptide
- Decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity and unsuppressed hepatic glucose production
- Erratic swings in blood glucose levels from hypoglycaemia to hyperglycaemia 1 Management of type 3c diabetes is complicated by malabsorption, excess alcohol intake, and poor dietary intake, and requires an individualised medical nutrition therapy programme 1. Key aspects of management include:
- Regular monitoring and recording of blood glucose levels
- Alcohol avoidance to pre-empt and prevent hypoglycaemic events
- Implementation of patient-specific meal plans to reduce the frequency and extent of hyperglycaemia 1
From the Research
Condition Affecting Pancreatic Alpha Cells
- The condition affecting pancreatic alpha cells is not directly mentioned in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies discuss autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), which is a form of chronic pancreatitis characterized by inflammation of the pancreas.
- There are two subtypes of AIP: type 1 and type 2, with type 1 being associated with elevated serum IgG4 levels and infiltration with IgG4-positive plasma cells 2, 3, 4, 6.
- Type 1 AIP is considered a pancreatic manifestation of a multiorgan disease, while type 2 AIP is a pancreas-specific disorder not associated with IgG4 2, 3, 6.
- The studies do not specifically mention a condition affecting pancreatic alpha cells, but rather focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of AIP 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.