I’ve had type 1 for 15 years. Just recently, I had a series of blood tests done because of weight gain. One of the blood tests was a VAP cholesterol panel. The blood tests indicated that I have metabolic syndrome. I thought that metabolic syndrome has to do with type 2, not type 1. I also have polycystic ovaries. I know I have type 1 because of the blood tests at diagnosis but, how is it possible that I also have metabolic syndrome?

The metabolic syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome are syndromes. That means that their diagnosis depends on a constellation of findings, none being specific. When you have a lipid panel done and have lipids consistent with metabolic syndrome, they are saying to you that you have high triglycerides, low HDL-cholesterol, and a few other things that cluster together. These same findings are seen with polycystic ovarian syndrome where the common environment is insulin resistance. It is possible to have insulin resistance and type 1 diabetes at the same time. Primarily, this represents a familial tendency. You probably have a larger than average insulin requirement. Weight can also be an issue common to these. I would be less concerned with labels and approach each of the problems with solutions common to all, that is, weight loss, exercise, good blood sugar control, lipid-lowering therapy (if indicated), and close communication with your physician.

JTL