Which statement about type 1 diabetes mellitus is NOT true?

Correct answer: A. It is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance

• A. ✅ CORRECT — This is the FALSE statement. INSULIN RESISTANCE defines type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is a state of absolute insulin DEFICIENCY — the receptors work; there is simply no insulin.
• B. ❌ True. Absolute insulin deficiency permits unrestrained lipolysis and ketogenesis, so DKA is characteristic of type 1. Type 2 more typically produces hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state.
• C. ❌ True. Autoimmune (T-cell mediated) destruction of the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans is the underlying mechanism, often with detectable autoantibodies.
• D. ❌ True. Because endogenous insulin production is lost, exogenous insulin is essential for survival.

Note: Chairside: the most common diabetic emergency in the dental office is HYPOGLYCEMIA, not hyperglycemia — a conscious patient gets 15 g of oral carbohydrate.