The antidiabetic functions of the pancreas and the successful isolation of the antidiabetic hormone - insulin / by J.J.R. Macleod and F.G. Banting.

  • Macleod, J. J. R. (John James Rickard), 1876-1935
Date:
1923 [©1924]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: The antidiabetic functions of the pancreas and the successful isolation of the antidiabetic hormone - insulin / by J.J.R. Macleod and F.G. Banting. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    great value of insulin in this type of case is that it permits operative interference because the patient may be rendered acetone-free and sugar-free by its use. Symptoms of diabetes are produced, primarily by the failure on the part of the body to burn adequate amounts of carbohydrate. This causes glucose to accumulate in the blood, giving rise to thirst, and since large amounts of fluid are taken into the body, large amounts are ex¬ creted. In children, owing to the large excretion of water, the frequent emptying of the bladder at night is a pronounced symptom. Since glucose is not metab¬ olized, the tissue cells are not properly nourished, giving rise to constant hunger, and despite the ingestion of large amounts of food there is progressive loss in weight. The unfavorable prognosis and the limited diet, in the presence of constant hunger frequently produce a men¬ tal condition characterized by pessimism, irritability and even melancholia. Insulin enables the body to burn carbohydrate, therefore all of these symptoms are re¬ lieved. I wish to express my sincere thanks to all those as¬ sociated in the work, and to express my appreciation of the many kindnesses and much helpful encouragement from friends and patients.