[Erythrocyte changes in diabetes].

The relationship between some glucose metabolism alterations in erythrocytes and the increased rigidity of these cells in diabetes mellitus is discussed. For this purpose, the literature data concerning the role played by glycolytic intermediates, adenosine and pyridine nucleotides and by insulin are particularly analyzed. In addition, original data on intracellular levels of some sugars, in particular sorbitol and their contribution in the rise of erythrocyte rheological alterations in diabetic subjects are presented.