[A method of studying insulin secretion in humans: the glucose stimulation test, followed by tolbutamide].

Various parameters of the insulin secretion in man may be appreciated and calculated by studying the insulin response to an intravenous pulse of glucose followed 120 minutes later by one of tolbutamide. The relative insensitivity of the B cell to glucose, probable marker of a constitutional pancreatic predisposition to diabetes may be assessed in a given individual whatever his age and body weight. The glucose intolerance per se is due to, or accompagnied by various B cell dysfunctions according to its etiology. This is illustrated by the results observed in chronic pancreatitis, liver cirrhosis, aged or obese subjects.