[Blood insulin levels during oral glucose tolerance tests in the obese child. Influence of age, sex, degree and duration of obesity]

Abstract

A significant increase in basic and post-stimulation insulin secretion was observed in 173 obese children undergoing oral glucose tolerance tests. The hyperinsulinism, which was not related to hyperclycemia, was more important in older and heavier children. It was also observed however in younger children since the onset of obesity. It may therefore play a role in the maintenance of the obesity but also in its development. Various hypothesis to explain the origin of this hyperinsulinism and the adaptation of the system to it are discussed.