A decline in the number of pancreatic beta cells is characteristic of
A)diabetes insipidus
B)type II diabetes
C)type I diabetes
D)Cushing's syndrome
E)noninsulin-dependent diabetes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A decline in the number of pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin, is characteristic of type I diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes. Type II diabetes, formerly known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes, is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, but not necessarily a decline in beta cell numbers. Diabetes insipidus is a disorder affecting the kidneys and has no relationship to beta cell function. Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by excess cortisol production and does not affect beta cell numbers.

A Decline in the Number of Pancreatic Beta Cells Is