[Gastrointestinal complications of diabetes mellitus].

Background: Diabetes mellitus leads to a broad spectrum of symptoms and manifestations in the field of gastroenterology.

Basis: This article reviews the pathophysiology, differential diagnoses and secondary diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in diabetic patients.

Clinical Appearance: Motility disorders, infectious complications, secondary diseases of the stomach, liver, pancreas, gall bladder, small and large bowel are considered and discussed. Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for the management of diabetic enteropathy are presented.

Conclusion: The new strategies in diagnosis and therapy for a successful prevention or treatment of gastrointestinal complications due to diabetes mellitus need good cooperation of clinical specialties.