Someone asked me today if I was a BRITTLE diabetic. I am type 2, and never heard of brittle.
Can anyone explain this to me.

Hi there, twokatss...

"Brittle" is an old term used to describe us Type1 diabetics who can't find stability in glucose levels, no matter how dilligent we are to our regimens.

At 37, I've had this term used to describe me these past few months since my recent diagnosis in Jan05. I've gone through numerous incremental changes to insulin, diet, etc. but we haven't found control yet. Gotta get myself the pump - they say it's the best thing for me/my situation :-)

Additional info as taken from:

© 2005 Geriatric Times. All rights reserved.

Brittle Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly

by James E. Haine, M.D., and Arvind Modawal, M.D., M.P.H.
Geriatric Times May/June 2002 Vol. III Issue 3

The term brittle diabetes was coined in 1934 by Woodyatt to describe individuals with unexplained large changes in blood glucose concentration. In 1977, Tattersall added to the concept, "any patient whose life is constantly being disrupted by episodes of hypo- or hyperglycaemia, whatever their cause." Despite decades of awareness about this condition, there is no specific definition or criteria for the diagnosis, and there are no guidelines to manage it. In fact, the existence of the diagnosis and its etiology and mechanisms are still being debated. Most patients with brittle diabetes are females in the second and third decade of life, but recent studies suggest that there is a second peak of prevalence at 60 to 70 years of age (Benbow et al., 2001). There is a paucity of published information on brittle diabetes in the elderly. This article will review brittle diabetes as seen in the general population and highlight issues for geriatric patients.

Hope this helps explain it some.

Cheers,
- Vikingirl

Very well said vikingirl! All the brittle diabetics I know are much better now on their pumps. There is actually relief! Hope you get your pump soon!