ST-Segment Elevation in the Setting of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Is It Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Cureus. 2020 Mar 25;12(3):e7409. doi: 10.7759/cureus.7409.

Abstract

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with resulting hyperkalemia can lead to ST-segment elevations on electrocardiogram (ECG). Previous publications theorize that significant improvements in patient potassium levels lead to the resolution of this rare phenomenon, also known as "pseudo-infarct" pattern. The authors provide a unique case along with a literature review of DKA-associated ST-segment elevations. This specific case distinctively demonstrates the resolution of the pseudo-infarct pattern in the setting of minor improvements in serum potassium and continued acidosis.

Keywords: diabetic ketoacidosis; hyperkalemia; pseudo-infarct pattern; st-segment elevation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports