Authors
Sajikumar J, MBBS, DCH, DNBa
aPediatrician, Parabrahma Specialty Hospital, Oachira.
Abstract
Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder with a long and fascinating history of recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. This article, “Part 1,” chronicles the historical evolution of understanding DM, from early observations based on taste to scientific testing and the revolutionary discovery of insulin.
Historical Milestones: Ancient civilizations, including Egyptians (Ebers Papyrus) and Ayurvedic physicians (Sushruta), noted symptoms like excessive urination and sweet urine. Greek physicians like Aretaeus provided detailed descriptions, coining the term “diabetes,” while medieval Islamic scholars such as Rhazes and Avicenna advanced diagnostic methods like observing ant attraction to urine and documenting complications. The Renaissance saw figures like Paracelsus attempting to understand the nature of urine residue. The experimental period, initiated by Claude Bernard, established the liver’s role in glucose metabolism. Oscar Minkowski conclusively linked the pancreas to diabetes, and Paul Langerhans identified pancreatic islets.
Key Discoveries: Significant advancements in diagnosis included Benedict’s chemical test for urinary sugars. The article culminates with the groundbreaking discovery of insulin in the early 20th century by Banting, Best, Macleod, and Collip, which transformed diabetes therapy and prognosis.
Conclusion: This first part highlights the remarkable journey of uncovering the complexities of diabetes, from rudimentary observations to critical experimental findings, culminating in the life-saving advent of insulin, paving the way for further advancements in management.