Beta-cell function recovery is not the only factor responsible for remission in type I diabetics: evaluation of C-peptide secretion in diabetic children after first metabolic recompensation and at partial remission phase.

In 9 newly diagnosed type I diabetic children the residual beta-cell secretory capacity was examined after stimulation with oral glucose load, glucagon and iv glucose plus arginine hydrochloride administration shortly after diagnosis and in the partial remission phase. A significant C-peptide secretion induced by these substances except by iv glucose was found at both investigation times. Whereas beta-cell function did only slightly increase from the initial testing to the measurements in the partial remission, beta-cell sensitivity increased significantly (p less than 0.05). The data suggest that "partial remission" referred to C-peptide secretion starts very early after insulin treatment and that other factors, possibly a decrease of peripheral insulin resistance, are involved in the improved metabolic control in partial remission phase.