Abnormal lipoprotein metabolism in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Pathogenesis and treatment.

Although diabetes mellitus is by definition a state of abnormal carbohydrate metabolism, defects in lipoprotein metabolism are a prominent feature of the diabetic syndrome. This is particularly true of patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), and it is quite likely that the abnormal lipid metabolism contributes significantly to the increased morbidity and mortality from coronary artery disease that characterizes NIDDM. In this presentation, an attempt is made to develop a coherent picture as to the pathogenesis of the defects in lipoprotein metabolism seen in patients with NIDDM, as well as to discuss therapeutic approaches to the treatment of these abnormalities.