Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a condition resulting from destruction of the beta cells in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas. This results in medically significant symptoms of hyperglycemia, dehydration, and acidosis, producing derangements in intermediary metabolism. This can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma, or even death from absolute or relative insulin deficiency. Exogenous insulin replacement is the only therapy for this.

Hypoglycemia occurs when the body’s blood glucose level drops too low to provide enough energy for the body’s activities. This is a common side effect of patient’s with Type 1 diabetes and relates to excess insulin administration. Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia describes the effects of low blood glucose caused by excessive insulin. It is the most common type of severe but transient hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia occuring accidentally in persons who take insulin.

Although hypoglycemia can occur suddenly, it can also usually be treated quickly, bringing the blood glucose level back to normal. If the hypoglycemia is mild, it is easily treated by eating or drinking foods containing carbohydrate. If left untreated, the hypoglycemia can become severe and lead to a loss of consciousness. In these extreme circumstances, food cannot be eaten, but glucagon can be injected to quickly raise the blood glucose level.