Office management of the adolescent with diabetes mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder caused by absolute or relative insulin deficiency. It causes disturbances in carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. Environmental triggers superimposed on a genetic predisposition are responsible for the clinical expression of the syndrome. This article outlines current ideas in diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in adolescents. The"team approach" to outpatient diabetes management is described,with the hope that it will be of benefit to primary care physicians and their office staff. Advances in diabetes care regimens, and tools used in diabetes care are briefly summarized. Summary tables are provided to assist in routine care, troubleshooting, and advanced management.