1992 年 13 巻 2 号 p. 137-144
History and definition of diabetes mellitus were reviewed. Diabetes mellitus is characterized by complications of widespread organs resulting from chronic hyperglycemia. Increased sorbitol production via the polyol pathway and glycation of proteins coupled with hemodynamic changes contribute to the development of diabetic complications. Diabetic angiopathy constitue a characterstic capillary lesion, capillary microaneurysm, which proceeds to diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. Involvementt of capillary vessels by diabetic angiopathy should be considered, when diabetic foot and periodontal disease are ought to be treated.