Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Review Article

Abstract

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is the most common chronic disease in childhood and one of its complications is diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis is considered one of the most common causes of death in a patient with type 1 diabetes. Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by hyperglycemia, hyperosmolarity, ketosis, and acidosis. The incidence rate of diabetic ketoacidosis has increased globally, annually. Diabetic ketoacidosis may be life-threatening and lead to diabetic coma or death. Diabetic ketoacidosis is defined as metabolic decompensation caused by increasing ketones in the blood. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when the body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into the cells for use as energy potentiated by glucose counter-regulatory hormone excess. Diabetic ketoacidosis presents with vague symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and pain in the abdomen. A characteristic symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis, such as Kussmaul breathing, is present in limited patients. Early diagnosis and management are effective to improve patient outcomes. Infections in diabetic patients should be carefully monitored as they are the most common precipitating factors for diabetic ketoacidosis. The diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis is based on three major signs which are hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and ketosis. The treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis includes fluid resuscitation, electrolyte replacement, insulin administration, and monitoring of the signs of cerebral edema and fluid overdose. This review article will mainly focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and morbidity of diabetic ketoacidosis. Keywords: Diabetic Ketoacidosis, Review Article, Insulin Therapy, Type one Diabetes mellitus. Type Two Diabetes Mellitus