Body composition and fat distribution measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in premenopausal and postmenopausal insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients.

The study aim was to measure body composition and fat distribution in premenopausal and postmenopausal women with insulin-dependent ([IDDM] n = 53) and non-insulin-dependent ([NIDDM] n = 32) diabetes mellitus by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. IDDM and NIDDM patients had similar, normal lean tissue mass (LTM) and 24-hour urinary excretion of creatinine. Total body and abdominal fat percentages were higher in the NIDDM group (approximately 40%) than in the IDDM group (-27%, P < .001) and were constant with age and menopausal status in both groups. In postmenopausal patients with IDDM, total body and abdominal fat values were less than in postmenopausal healthy women (approximately 27% v approximately 37%, P < .001). In premenopausal patients with NIDDM, total body and abdominal fat were higher than in premenopausal healthy women (approximately 42% v approximately 25%, P < .001). In conclusion, women with IDDM or NIDDM have a normal LTM and probably a normal muscle mass. Total body and abdominal fat were higher for women with NIDDM than for those with IDDM.