Massachusetts Pharmacy Technician License Practice Test

An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells is known as?

1. Type 2 diabetes

2. Type 1 diabetes

3. Gestational diabetes

4. Diabetes insipidus

The correct answer is: Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is indeed classified as an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This destruction leads to little or no insulin production, necessitating lifelong insulin therapy for individuals affected by this condition. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes primarily involves insulin resistance, where the body does not effectively utilize insulin, and it typically develops over time due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Gestational diabetes, seen during pregnancy, occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin to meet the increased demands, and diabetes insipidus is a rare condition unrelated to insulin; it involves issues with the regulation of water in the body.