Question

The underlying defect in juvenile-onset diabetes that causes symptoms is __________.

A) Insulin deficiency
B) Excess insulin production
C) Abnormal glucose metabolism
D) Dysfunction of the pancreas

Answer 1

Juvenile-onset diabetes, or type 1 diabetes, is characterized by an insulin deficiency due to the immune system attacking the pancreas's beta cells, leading to high blood glucose levels and related symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The underlying defect in juvenile-onset diabetes that causes symptoms is insulin deficiency, which means the pancreas is under-producing insulin. Disorders of the endocrine system, specifically diabetes mellitus, arise from dysfunction of insulin production and secretion, or the target cells' responsiveness to insulin. In type 1 diabetes, which is often called juvenile-onset diabetes, the immune system attacks the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas, leading to insufficient insulin production and the inability to regulate blood glucose levels. This causes a host of symptoms such as excessive thirst and urination due to high blood glucose levels, or hyperglycemia.