An Approach to Diabetic Ketoacidosis in an Emergency Setting

Abstract

Background: Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the most commonly encountered diabetic complication emergencies. It typically affects people with type 1 diabetes at the onset of the disease. It can also affect people with type 2 diabetes, although this is uncommon.

Methods: Research and online content related to diabetes online activity is reviewed. DKA is caused by a relative or absolute deficiency of insulin and elevated levels of counter-regulatory hormones.

Results: Goals of therapy are to correct dehydration, acidosis, and to reverse ketosis, gradually restoring blood glucose concentration to near normal.

Conclusion: It is essential to monitor potential complications of DKA and, if necessary, to treat them and any precipitating events.

Keywords: Type 1 diabetes mellitus; children; complications; diabetic ketoacidosis; glycemic control; insulin pump therapy; medicine; mortality.