Leptin and Lipid Profile in Overweight Patient with Type 1 Diabetes.

AIM: To evaluate leptin and lipid profile in overweight patients with type 1 diabetes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 50 overweight patients with type 1 diabetes and 50 age and sex matched healthy controls. Blood samples were taken for evaluation of glycosylated haemoglobin, lipid profile and leptin. Also, urine samples were taken for evaluation of albumin/creatinine ratio.

RESULTS: Leptin level was significantly lower in overweight with type 1 diabetes and showed a significant positive correlation with hip circumference and body mass index and negative correlation with glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Leptin level was significantly lower in overweight diabetic patients with HbA1c > 7.5 %. The best cut-off point between overweight diabetic group and control group regarding leptin levels was found at 16.9 (ng/ml) with a sensitivity of 68% and specificity of 56%, area under the curve 0.623.

CONCLUSION: Leptin levels were found to be low in overweight patients with type 1 diabetes and showed correlation with the body mass index and hip circumference. LDL was significantly higher while HDL was significantly lower in the diabetic, overweight group indicating increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Leptin level in overweight diabetic patients might be related to the metabolic control.