Insulin resistance syndrome (Syndrome X)
Insulin resistance syndrome is a disorder characterised by high levels of insulin, the hormone secreted by pancreatic cells which usually reduces glucose levels, in the presence of inappropriately high levels of glucose. In other words the cells are resistant to the action of the circulating insulin. The syndrome is also known as metabolic syndrome or syndrome X. It is associated with morbid obesity, high blood pressure, stress and depression, coronary heart disease, none insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and, in women, polycystic ovary syndrome with reduced fertility. Why this syndrome develops is uncertain, but there may be changes in insulin receptors on cell surfaces, or the way in which they pass on the message that the insulin brings. There are genetic and environmental factors here, since many of these conditions run in families and they’re also associated with diets high in free fatty acids. The insulin sensitivity is improved by weight loss, and drugs used to increase the effects of insulin such as metformin may improve fertility in polycystic ovary syndrome. The other components of insulin resistance need treatment for the individual disorder.
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