The prevalence of DM in the Gulf area is among the highest in the world. In Oman it is about 10% in the general population. Further 7% present abnormal glucose tolerance. This fact suggests that our transplant population is predisposed for the development of post transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM).
We reviewed the data of 162 renal transplant recipients, who received the transplant the last 3 years and who were followed at our hospital. The immunosuppression consists of Cyclosporine, MMF and steroids. Mean age was 40.2 years. DM was present before transplantation in 22 patients (13.6%). Within the first 2 months after transplantation, insulin-requiring DM developed in 45 patients (33.3%), DM requiring oral agents developed in 10 patients (6%). Further 16 patients (9.8%) presented blood sugars values of more than 11mmol/l but required only diet for control. Our data shows that 63% of recently transplanted patients are Diabetic. The incidence of PTDM is about 50% within the first 2 months of transplantation in a Cyclosporine based protocol.
PTDM in our population requires special attention. Protocols with minimal steroids and or steroid withdrawal may be beneficial in our population.