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Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Life-threatening complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis.

Also: DKA

Caused by severe insulin deficiency, most often in T1DM during illness, missed insulin, or new-onset diabetes. Triad: blood glucose >250 mg/dL, arterial pH <7.3, and serum ketones. Treated with IV fluids, insulin infusion, electrolyte replacement (especially potassium), and correction of the precipitating cause.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 30

    Caused by severe insulin deficiency, most often in T1DM during illness, missed insulin, or new-onset diabetes. Triad: blood glucose >250 mg/dL, arterial pH <7.3, and serum ketones. Treated with IV fluids, insulin infusion, electrolyte replacement (especially potassium), and correction of the precipitating cause.

Related terms

Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State, Insulin, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus