autoimmune diabetes

noun

Meaning

A chronic condition where the immune system destroys pancreatic beta cells, preventing the body from producing enough insulin to regulate blood sugar.

Examples

  • Patients diagnosed with autoimmune diabetes must monitor their glucose levels throughout the day.
  • Research into autoimmune diabetes focuses on preventing the immune system from targeting healthy pancreatic tissue.

Synonyms: type 1 diabetes, insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes