What are the two main types of diabetes mellitus?

The two main types of diabetes mellitus are Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that typically manifests in childhood or adolescence, where the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in little to no insulin production, leading to dependence on exogenous insulin for survival.

Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, usually develops in adults and is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, often combined with a relative deficiency of insulin production. This type of diabetes is often associated with risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and family history.

Understanding these two primary types is crucial for clinical practice since the management, treatment, and potential complications vary significantly between them. The knowledge of these differences is essential for healthcare providers to develop appropriate care plans and interventions for patients with diabetes.