DKA
Pronunciation: D-K-A
Also written as: DKA — Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetic ketoacidosis - life-threatening complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis.
Full Definition
A serious acute complication of diabetes mellitus resulting from absolute or relative insulin deficiency, leading to hyperglycemia, ketone production, and metabolic acidosis. In pediatric critical care, DKA presents with dehydration, altered mental status, and characteristic deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations). Management requires careful fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, electrolyte monitoring, and prevention of cerebral edema, which is more common in children than adults.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize. Distinguish from other diabetic emergencies like HHS.
In Context
- "The patient presented in severe DKA with a glucose of 450 mg/dL and pH of 7.1." — Emergency department admission note
- "Neurological checks were performed hourly to monitor for cerebral edema during DKA treatment." — Critical care monitoring protocol