Diabetic Ketoacidosis
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- (DKA, also see Diabetic Coma) The basis for DKA is either absolute deficiency of insulin or acute resistance to insulin developing when absolute insulin deficiency and excess contra-insulin hormones increase liver glucose production, decrease peripheral glucose utilization, and stimulate release of fatty acids from fat cells and production of ketones by the liver. These changes cause hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, volume depletion, and acidosis. DKA is a severe condition caused by a lack of insulin or an elevation in stress hormones and marked by high blood glucose levels and ketones in the urine, and occurs almost exclusively in those with Type I diabetes. Its symptoms may include dry mouth, great thirst, loss of appetite, excessive urination, dry and flushed skin, heavy or labored breathing, possible vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity-smelling breath (odor of alcoholic beverage), unconsciousness, and death.
CA DMV - Cite This Source - This Definition - High blood glucose with the presence of ketones in the urine and bloodstream, often caused by taking too little insulin or during illness.
CDC - Cite This Source - This Definition - Acidosis, hyperglycemia, Juvenile-Onset Diabetic, Lactoic Acidosis, Obesity, Polydipsia, Polyphagia