Quality of life of diabetic patients after combined pancreatic‐renal transplantation

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Abstract
This study examined the relative efficacy of pancreatic‐renal transplantation in the treatment of insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Ten diabetics successfully treated with pancreatic‐renal transplantation to achieve insulin independence were included in the study and 6 diabetics transplanted with kidneys alone comprised the control group. Psychosocial adjustment, various aspects of self image and overall life satisfaction in both the groups were measured using standardized instruments. Recipients of pancreas showed significantly better adjustment, especially in the domestic, vocational and sexual spheres of life. They also had improved self image, with significant increase in the identity stability and control over destiny. Subjective measures of life satisfaction failed to show significant differences between the groups. Young age, short duration of diabetes and non‐use of steroids predicted a better outcome.