Diabetes

Introduction Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening diabetic emergency. DKA is a severe metabolic complication of diabetes. It is typically seen in those with T1DM as a presenting feature, in patients with poor control or intercurrent illness. Hyperglycaemia results in osmotic diuresis and electrolyte abnormalities, which requires prompt recognition and management. The condition is characterised by a biochemical triad of hyperglycaemia, ketonaemia and acidosis. Hyperglycaemia: > 11.0 mmol/L or known DM Ketonaemia: ≥ 3 mmol/L or significant ketonuria (> 2+ on dipstick) Acidosis: bicarbonate < 15.0 mmol/L and/or venous pH < 7.3   Epidemiology DKA represents an acute hyperglycaemic complication