GLUCOSE-METABOLISM AND INSULIN-SECRETION IN CHILDREN WITH CYANOTIC CONGENITAL HEART-DISEASE

The aim of the study was to reveal differences in carbohydrate metabol ism in children with cyanotic congenital heart diseases (CHD). Thirtee n children viith diseases of these kinds were investigated with regard to glucose tolerance and insulin secretion and comparisons were made with healthy controls of the same age. investigations included an intr avenous glucose tolerance test, insulin response to the glucose load i n plasma and insulin secretion rate. The results reveal lower fasting glucose levels and signs of a higher insulin secretion rate in the rel atively few patients in the CHD group where C-peptide measurements wer e performed, but no differences in glucose tolerance. The reasons for the differences are unclear, but the chronic increases in circulating catecholamines in combination with the impaired nutritional status of these children with CHD are probably the most important factors. We co nclude that these divergences in carbohydrate metabolism should be emp hasized in the care of children with CHD.