http://dx.doi.org/10.15344/2455-2364/2015/110
Abstract
Background: Type 4 retinol binding protein (RBP4) is a novel adipocytokine that has been related with insulin resistance (IR). In pediatric population, RBP4 levels are higher in obese subjects compared with lean subjects. In adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) a positive correlation has been found between RBP4 levels and hepatic steatosis (HS). There is scarce information on RBP4 levels in children and adolescents with T2D. The aim of our study was to evaluate RBP4 levels in T2D adolescents and its association to HS.
Methods: 34 T2D adolescents were included. Fasting glucose, glicated hemoglobin (HBA1c), lipid profile, and RBP4 levels were determined. The degree of HS was evaluated by hepatic Doppler-ultrasound. Results: Of the 34 patients, 64.7% were female. Mean age was 14.37±2.27 years and HbA1c was 9.27± 3.27%. 33.3% did not have steatosis (NHS), 41.7% had mild HS (MHS) and 25% had severe HS (SHS). No differences were found between the 3 groups in age, weight, BMI, waist, years of DM2, and Tanner stage. ALT, AST and RBP4 concentrations were higher in patients with SHS compared with those with MHS and NHS (p=0.04). There was a positive correlation between HS and RBP4 levels (r=0.487, p=0.043).
Conclusion: In children and adolescents with T2D RBP4 levels are associated with the degree of HS. This adipocytokine could be used as an HS serum marker.