Differential Expression of Inflammatory Markers in Hypoglycemia Unawareness Associated with Type 1 Diabetes: A Case Report

The recurrence of hypoglycemic episodes leads to attenuation of the normal counter-regulatory mechanisms that are controlled by the hypothalamus, which results in hypoglycemia unawareness (HU). In this case report, we described for the first time the differential expression of TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, and IFN-gamma in a blood sample that was taken from a 27-year-old patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who was diagnosed with HU. The anti-diabetic regimen is currently based on insulin injection, but the patient is planning to start the use of an insulin pump to have better control of glucose levels. Our results showed a trend toward an increase in the expression of IL-1 beta, IL-6, and IFN-gamma in T1DM patient with HU. However, the mRNA level of TNF-alpha showed a significant decrease. These observations suggest that systemic inflammation could be an underlying cause of HU.

Automated summary

Recurrent hypoglycemic episodes can lead to hypoglycemia unawareness. Research findings suggest that decreased TNF-alpha expression and increased expression of IL-1 beta, IL-6, and IFN-gamma in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients may indicate systemic inflammation as an underlying cause of HU.