diabetic ketoacidosis
Life-threatening complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis.
Full Definition
A serious acute complication of diabetes mellitus, most commonly type 1 diabetes, characterized by the triad of hyperglycemia (typically >250 mg/dL), ketosis (urine or serum ketones), and metabolic acidosis (arterial pH <7.3 or serum bicarbonate <15 mEq/L). DKA results from absolute or relative insulin deficiency leading to increased glucose production and decreased glucose utilization, combined with enhanced lipolysis and ketogenesis. In children and adolescents, DKA may be the presenting manifestation of new-onset type 1 diabetes in approximately 25-40% of cases. Clinical features include polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss, abdominal pain, vomiting, dehydration, and altered mental status. Treatment involves fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, electrolyte replacement, and careful monitoring for complications such as cerebral edema, which is more common in pediatric patients.
Usage
Usage note: Always document the complete biochemical triad when describing DKA presentation.
In Context
- "The patient presented in diabetic ketoacidosis with glucose of 420 mg/dL, large urine ketones, and venous pH of 7.18." — Emergency department assessment
- "Diabetic ketoacidosis in pediatric patients requires careful monitoring for cerebral edema during treatment." — Critical care protocol