Diabetes Secondary to Pancreatic Diseases

Diabetes secondary to pancreatic diseases is a well-known form of diabetes mellitus, classified as "diseases of the exocrine pancreas - other specific type of diabetes," or Type 3c diabetes mellitus (T3cDM) Exocrine pancreatic diseases underlying T3cDM include benign and malign conditions, of any etiology, that diffusely injure the pancreas. Due to the heterogeneity of its underlying causes, it is rarely considered in everyday clinical practice, but it could be more common than generally thought. An early diagnosis of a pancreatic disease may substantially change the patient's prognosis. Finally, endocrinologists should become more acquainted with pancreatic diseases, while all other specialists should attribute the deserved importance to diabetes and hyperglycemia, even in the apparently mild forms. A schematic revision of causes, clinical diagnoses and management will be discussed in the chapter.