Identifying targets to reduce the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in the UK

Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis (PDKA) among newly diagnosed diabetic patients at Dilla University Hospital, Dilla, Ethiopia: Prevalence and predictors

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a morbid complication of Type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM), and its occurrence at diagnosis has rarely been studied in Ethiopia, despite the many cases seen in the pediatric population.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to know the prevalence of DKA among patients with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus and identify avoidable risk factors.

METHOD

This institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2018 to December1, 2022. Newly diagnosed T1DM under 15 years were included in the study. DKA and the new diagnosis of type 1 DM were defined based on the 2022 ISPAD and other international guidelines. A data collection form was used to collect sociodemographic and clinical data. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the risk factors.

RESULT

Among the 61 newly diagnosed T1DM pediatric patients admitted, DKA was the initial presentation in 37 patients, accounting for 60.7% of the cases. The mean age at diagnosis was 8 (±3.85) years, with females being more affected. Clinical presentation revealed vomiting accompanied by signs of dehydration (32.4%), with polyuria, polydipsia and weight loss (26.2%) being the most common symptoms. The presence of adequate knowledge of signs and symptoms of DM (AOR = 0.07, 95%CI 0.019-0.0897, P value 0.017) and a family history of DM (AOR = 0.129 95%CI 0.019-0.897, P value 0.039) were protective factors against DKA as the initial diagnosis of DM. Moreover, new-onset type 1 DM without DKA was 1.5 times higher in children from families with a high monthly income (AOR = 1.473, 95% CI 0.679-3.195 p value 0.000) compared to those from families with low income. The presence of an infection prior to DKA (AOR = 11.69,95%CI 1.34-10.1,P value 0.026) was associated with the diagnosis of DKA at the initial presentation of DM.

CONCLUSION

A high number of children present with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at the initial diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM), which is associated with inadequate knowledge of the signs and symptoms of DM as well as the masking effect of concomitant infections in these children. Healthcare professionals should endeavor to suspect and screen children. Continuous awareness creation of DM is encouraged to diagnose diabetes mellitus earlier and to decrease the prevalence of DKA as an initial presentation.

Association between COVID-19 and the incidence of type 1 diabetes in Portugal - a registry study

BACKGROUND

Viral respiratory infections may precipitate type 1 diabetes (T1D). A possible association between the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, and the incidence of T1D is being determined. This study was carried out using Portuguese registries, aiming at examining temporal trends between COVID-19 and T1D.

METHODS

Hospital data, comparing the incidence before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, from children and young adults diagnosed with new-onset T1D, was acquired beginning in 2017 and until the end of 2022. Data was obtained from nine different Portuguese hospital units. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in March 2020, was assessed comparing the annual numbers of new-onset T1D cases. The annual median levels of glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting C-peptide at T1D diagnosis were compared. The annual number of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) episodes among new T1D cases was also assessed at two centers.

RESULTS

In total, data from 574 newly diagnosed T1D patients was analyzed, including 530 (92.3%) children. The mean ages for child and adult patients were 9.1 (SD 4.4) and 32.8 (SD 13.6) years, respectively. 57.8% (331/573) were male, one patient had unknown sex. The overall median (25-75 percentiles) levels of glucose, HbA1c and fasting C-peptide at diagnosis were 454 mg/dL (356-568), 11.8% (10.1-13.4) and 0.50 µg/L (0.30-0.79), respectively. DKA at T1D diagnosis was present in 48.4% (76/157). For eight centers with complete 2018 to 2021 data (all calendar months), no overall significant increase in T1D cases was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, i.e. 90 cases in 2018, 90 cases in 2019, 112 in 2020 and 100 in 2021 (P for trend = 0.36). Two of the centers, Faro (CHUA) and Dona Estefânia (CHULC) hospitals, did however see an increase in T1D from 2019 to 2020. No significant changes in glucose (P = 0.32), HbA1c (P = 0.68), fasting C-peptide (P = 0.20) or DKA frequency (P = 0.68) at the time of T1D diagnosis were observed over the entire study period.

CONCLUSION

The T1D incidence did not increase significantly, when comparing the years before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, nor did key metabolic parameters or number of DKA episodes change.

Trends in BMI in Latin American Children With New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes Over 3 Years

This article reports the trends in BMI z score (z-BMI) and their correlation with insulin dose and A1C in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes from several Latin American centers. The researchers observed a significant increase in the z-BMI from type 1 diabetes onset through the 3-year follow-up, with insulin dose as a significant covariate. Although insulin doses steadily increased, their impact on A1C did not appear to be optimal (mean A1C 8.7%).

Have interventions aimed at assisting general practitioners in facilitating earlier diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children been successful? A systematic review protocol

BACKGROUND

Early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children is critical to prevent deterioration to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a state where the body's insulin levels are critically low resulting in the use of fat for fuel and the accumulation of ketones. DKA is a life-threatening emergency where dehydration and cerebral oedema can quickly develop and lead to death. Despite treatment, DKA also has harmful impacts on cognition and brain development. Most children admitted to a hospital with DKA see their general practitioner in the week leading up to their admission. A delay in referral from general practice can result in delays in commencing lifesaving insulin therapy. Prior systematic reviews have explored publicity campaign interventions aimed at recognising type 1 diabetes earlier; however, no reviews have explored these interventions targeted at reducing the delay after presentation to the general practitioner. This systematic review aims to summarise interventions that target the diagnostic delay emerging from general practice and to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing DKA admissions.

METHODS

Six databases (Ovid (MEDLINE), Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews (EBMR) and Google Scholar) will be searched to identify studies exploring interventions to reduce diagnostic delay in children with type 1 diabetes, and hence DKA, in general practice. The primary outcome will be the number of DKA admissions to a hospital following a delay in general practice. The secondary outcome will be the behaviour of general practitioners with respect to urgent referral of children with type 1 diabetes. Title, abstract and full-text screening for exclusion and inclusion of publications will be completed by two independent reviewers. Any risks of bias within individual studies will be assessed by two independent reviewers, using the Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tool. Our confidence in the overall body of evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The systematic review will be disseminated via publication and potentially in conference presentations. Ethics is not required for a systematic review of secondary data.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023412504.

Multicenter evaluation of a method to identify delayed diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis and sepsis in administrative data

OBJECTIVES

To derive a method of automated identification of delayed diagnosis of two serious pediatric conditions seen in the emergency department (ED): new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and sepsis.

METHODS

Patients under 21 years old from five pediatric EDs were included if they had two encounters within 7 days, the second resulting in a diagnosis of DKA or sepsis. The main outcome was delayed diagnosis based on detailed health record review using a validated rubric. Using logistic regression, we derived a decision rule evaluating the likelihood of delayed diagnosis using only characteristics available in administrative data. Test characteristics at a maximal accuracy threshold were determined.

RESULTS

Delayed diagnosis was present in 41/46 (89 %) of DKA patients seen twice within 7 days. Because of the high rate of delayed diagnosis, no characteristic we tested added predictive power beyond the presence of a revisit. For sepsis, 109/646 (17 %) of patients were deemed to have a delay in diagnosis. Fewer days between ED encounters was the most important characteristic associated with delayed diagnosis. In sepsis, our final model had a sensitivity for delayed diagnosis of 83.5 % (95 % confidence interval 75.2-89.9) and specificity of 61.3 % (95 % confidence interval 56.0-65.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Children with delayed diagnosis of DKA can be identified by having a revisit within 7 days. Many children with delayed diagnosis of sepsis may be identified using this approach with low specificity, indicating the need for manual case review.

Factors Associated With Diabetic Ketoacidosis at Onset of Type 1 Diabetes Among Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review

IMPORTANCE

Presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains a risk. Following a 2011 systematic review, considerable additional articles have been published, and the review required updating.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate factors associated with DKA at the onset of T1D among pediatric patients.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

In this systematic review, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and article reference lists were searched using the population, intervention, comparison, outcome search strategy for primary research studies on DKA and T1D onset among individuals younger than 18 years that were published from January 2011 to November 2021. These studies were combined with a 2011 systematic review on the same topic. Data were pooled using a random-effects model.

FINDINGS

A total of 2565 articles were identified; 149 were included, along with 46 from the previous review (total 195 articles). Thirty-eight factors were identified and examined for their association with DKA at T1D onset. Factors associated with increased risk of DKA were younger age at T1D onset (<2 years vs ≥2 years; odds ratio [OR], 3.51; 95% CI, 2.85-4.32; P < .001), belonging to an ethnic minority population (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.21-0.74; P = .004), and family history of T1D (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.37-0.57; P < .001), consistent with the 2011 systematic review. Some factors that were not associated with DKA in the 2011 systematic review were associated with DKA in the present review (eg, delayed diagnosis: OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.72-3.01; P < .001). Additional factors associated with risk of DKA among patients with new-onset T1D included participation in screening programs (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.21-0.59; P < .001) and presentation during the COVID-19 pandemic (OR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.76-3.06; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, age younger than 2 years at T1D onset, belonging to an ethnic minority population, delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis, and presenting during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with increased risk of DKA. Factors associated with decreased risk of DKA included greater knowledge of key signs or symptoms of DKA, such as a family history of T1D or participation in screening programs. Future work should focus on identifying and implementing strategies related to these factors to reduce risk of DKA among new patients with T1D.

Variation in the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents by world region and country income group: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Around 18.7 million of the 537 million people with diabetes worldwide live in low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC), where there is also an increase in the number of children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). There are substantial gaps in data in the current understanding of the epidemiological patterns and trends in incidence rates of T1D at the global level.

METHODS

We performed a scoping review of published studies that established the incidence of T1D in children, adolescents, and young adults aged 0-25 years at national and sub-national levels using PubMed, Embase and Global Health. Data was analyzed using R programming.

RESULTS

The scoping review identified 237 studies which included T1D incidence estimates from 92 countries, revealing substantial variability in the annual incidence of T1D by age, geographic region, and country-income classification. Highest rates were reported in the 5-9 and 10-14 year age groups than in the 0-4 and 15-19 year age groups, respectively. In the 0-14 year age group, the highest incidence was reported in Northern Europe (23.96 per 100,000), Australia/New Zealand (22.8 per 100,000), and Northern America (18.02 per 100,000), while the lowest was observed in Melanesia, Western Africa, and South America (all < 1 per 100,000). For the 0-19 year age group, the highest incidence was reported in Northern Europe (39.0 per 100,000), Northern America (20.07 per 100,000), and Northern Africa (10.1 per 100,000), while the lowest was observed in Eastern and Western Africa (< 2 per 100,000). Higher incidence rates were observed in high-income countries compared to LMICs. There was a paucity of published studies focusing on determining the incidence of T1D in LMICs.

CONCLUSION

The review reveals substantial variability in incidence rates of T1D by geographic region, country income group, and age. There is a dearth of information on T1D in LMICs, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where incidence remains largely unknown. Investment in population-based registries and longitudinal cohort studies could help improve the current understanding of the epidemiological trends and help inform health policy, resource allocation, and targeted interventions to enhance access to effective, efficient, equitable, and responsive healthcare services.

Delayed referral is common even when new-onset diabetes is suspected in children. A Swedish prospective observational study of diabetic ketoacidosis at onset of Type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Delayed treatment for new-onset diabetes Type 1 (T1D) can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with potentially devastating consequences. This prospective observational study aimed to characterize pediatric patients with DKA at hospital admission, regarding parental awareness of diabetes-related symptoms and delayed referrals from primary health care providers to pediatric emergency wards.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients 0-18 years admitted to hospital with new-onset T1D and DKA between 2015 and 2017 were invited to participate. Questionnaires were filled out separately by the caregivers and by the attending hospital staff. Data from the Swedish National Diabetes Registry (SWEDIABKIDS) were used for comparison. Delayed referral was defined as a primary healthcare contact due to diabetes-related symptoms 0-4 weeks before hospital admission without immediate referral, or registered elevated glucose levels at primary healthcare centers without immediate referral.

RESULTS

The study included 237 patients, among which parental suspicion of new-onset diabetes before healthcare contacts was reported in 39%. Parental suspicion of diabetes was associated with higher pH values at diagnosis. Patients in contact with primary health care providers before hospital admission had a delayed referral in 43% of the cases. Delayed referral was associated with lower pH values at hospital admission. Symptoms leading to primary healthcare contacts were similar regardless of whether delay occurred or not.

CONCLUSIONS

Parental suspicion of diabetes was associated with milder DKA at hospital admission. Delayed referral was seen in a considerable proportion of children with primary healthcare contacts for symptoms associated with diabetes. Increased awareness of diabetes symptoms is of paramount importance.

Development of a rubric for assessing delayed diagnosis of appendicitis, diabetic ketoacidosis and sepsis

OBJECTIVES

Using case review to determine whether a patient experienced a delayed diagnosis is challenging. Measurement would be more accurate if case reviewers had access to multi-expert consensus on grading the likelihood of delayed diagnosis. Our objective was to use expert consensus to create a guide for objectively grading the likelihood of delayed diagnosis of appendicitis, new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and sepsis.

METHODS

Case vignettes were constructed for each condition. In each vignette, a patient has the condition and had a previous emergency department (ED) visit within 7 days. Condition-specific multi-specialty expert Delphi panels reviewed the case vignettes and graded the likelihood of a delayed diagnosis on a five-point scale. Delayed diagnosis was defined as the condition being present during the previous ED visit. Consensus was defined as ≥75% agreement. In each Delphi round, panelists were given the scores from the previous round and asked to rescore. A case scoring guide was created from the consensus scores.

RESULTS

Eighteen expert panelists participated. Consensus was achieved within three Delphi rounds for all appendicitis and sepsis vignettes. We reached consensus on 23/30 (77%) DKA vignettes. A case review guide was created from the consensus scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Multi-specialty expert reviewers can agree on the likelihood of a delayed diagnosis for cases of appendicitis and sepsis, and for most cases of DKA. We created a guide that can be used by researchers and quality improvement specialists to allow for objective case review to determine when delayed diagnoses have occurred for appendicitis, DKA, and sepsis.

Is Misdiagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Malaysian Children a Common Phenomenon?

BACKGROUND

Children with Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) commonly present in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at initial diagnosis. This is likely due to several factors, one of which includes the propensity for T1DM to be misdiagnosed. The prevalence of misdiagnosis has been reported in non-Asian children with T1DM but not in Asian cohorts.

AIM

To report the rate of misdiagnosis and its associated risk factors in Malaysian children and adolescents with T1DM.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of children with T1DM below 18 years of age over a 10 year period was conducted.

RESULTS

The cohort included 119 children (53.8% female) with a mean age 8.1 SD ± 3.9 years. 38.7% of cases were misdiagnosed, of which respiratory illnesses were the most common (37.0%) misdiagnosis. The rate of misdiagnosis remained the same over the 10 year period. Among the variables examined, younger age at presentation, DKA at presentation, healthcare professional (HCP) contact and admission to the intensive care unit were significantly different between the misdiagnosed and correctly diagnosed groups (p <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Misdiagnosis of T1DM occurs more frequently in Malaysian children <5 years of age. Misdiagnosed cases are at a higher risk of presenting in DKA with increased risk of ICU admission and more likely to have had prior HCP contact. Awareness of T1DM amongst healthcare professionals is crucial for early identification, prevention of DKA and reducing rates of misdiagnosis.

"Puddles on the Road": Hurdles in the Pathway from Symptoms to Diagnosis and Treatment in Children with Type 1 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to investigate the pathway from first symptoms to initiation of insulin regimen in children with new-onset Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and explore the reasons behind diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) at onset among children with T1DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An exploratory study was conducted using a pretested questionnaire, among parents of children diagnosed with T1DM within preceding 3 months.

RESULTS

Out of the total 105 children, 56.1% were males. The median age was 7 years. The commonest reported symptoms were polydipsia (97.8%), polyuria (75.2%), and nocturia (75.2%). The mean time taken by parents from onset of symptoms to decide to visit the physician (appraisal gap) was 7.85 ± 7.95 days. The help-seeking gap (from decision-making to visiting a physician) was 3.01 ± 8.31 days, diagnostic gap (from first visit to diagnosis) was 4.19 ± 6.72 days, and the treatment gap (from diagnosis to the start of insulin) was 2.12 ± 6.87 days. The DKA at onset (was present in 39 out of 105 children 37.1%) and was higher among children with lower per-capita income (P-0.017), lack of previous experience among parents (P-0.017), longer appraisal (P-0.023), and treatment gap (P-0.009).

CONCLUSION

Increasing awareness about the diabetes among children among the public and primary healthcare workers can help prevent DKA at onset.

10-Year Incidence of Diabetic Ketoacidosis at Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis in Children Aged Less Than 16 Years From a Large Regional Center (Hangzhou, China)

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes (T1D), and a leading cause of death in children aged <15 years with new-onset T1D.

AIMS

i) to assess the incidence of DKA in children and adolescents newly diagnosed with T1D over a 10-year period at a large regional center in China; and ii) to examine the clinical symptoms and demographic factors associated with DKA and its severity at diagnosis.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective audit of a regional center, encompassing all youth aged <16 years diagnosed with T1D in 2009-2018 at the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Hangzhou, China). DKA and its severity were classified according to ISPAD 2018 guidelines.

RESULTS

681 children were diagnosed with T1D, 50.1% having DKA at presentation (36.0% mild, 30.0% moderate, and 33.9% severe DKA). The number of patients diagnosed with T1D progressively rose from approximately 39 cases/year in 2009-2010 to 95 cases/year in 2017-2018 (≈2.5-fold increase), rising primarily among children aged 5-9 years. DKA incidence was unchanged but variable (44.8% to 56.8%). At T1D diagnosis, 89% of patients reported polyuria and 91% polydipsia. Children presenting with DKA were more likely to report vomiting, abdominal pain, and particularly fatigue. DKA was most common among the youngest children, affecting 4 in 5 children aged <2 years (81.4%), in comparison to 53.3%, 42.7%, and 49.3% of patients aged 2-4, 5-9, and ≥10 years, respectively. Children with severe DKA were more likely to report vomiting, fatigue, and abdominal pain, but less likely to report polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia than those with mild/moderate DKA. Rates of severe DKA were highest in children aged <2 years (51.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of children diagnosed with T1D at our regional center increased over the study period, but DKA rates were unchanged. With 9 of 10 children reporting polyuria and polydipsia prior to T1D diagnosis, increasing awareness of this condition in the community and among primary care physicians could lead to earlier diagnosis, and thus potentially reduce rates of DKA at presentation.

Significant reduction of ketoacidosis at diabetes onset in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes-The Stuttgart Diabetes Awareness Campaign, Germany

BACKGROUND

To prevent the potentially life-threatening complication, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at type 1 diabetes onset in children and adolescents, awareness campaigns can lead to a significant reduction of DKA. As in Germany, the incidence of DKA at diabetes onset had remained at a constant rate over the last 15 years and increasing numbers of very young children present with higher risk for DKA we decided to set up the Stuttgart Ketoacidosis Awareness Campaign.

METHODS

Over 3 years (2015-2017) the campaign was conducted using information flyers and posters illustrating the typical symptoms of diabetes at school entry health examinations at the Public Health Department, in day-care facilities, in all pediatric practices and by regular public activities. The period between 2011 and 2013 was selected as a reference period.

RESULTS

Approximately 17 000 children, median age 4.5 years, and their families were informed about the campaign during the preschool health examination. A total of 118 children and adolescents were treated with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes compared with 127 during the reference period. During the campaign the incidence of DKA decreased significantly from 28% to 16%.

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness campaigns like the Stuttgart Ketoacidosis Awareness Campaign about the typical clinical symptoms of type 1 diabetes can significantly reduce the risk for DKA at diabetes onset. Important factors for the success of our campaign were the close cooperation between the children's hospital and the public health department, the targeted approach of families, teachers, and pediatricians and the duration of the campaign over 3 years.

Association of diabetic ketoacidosis and HbA1c at onset with year-three HbA1c in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes: Data from the International SWEET Registry

OBJECTIVE

To establish whether diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or HbA1c at onset is associated with year-three HbA1c in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Children with T1D from the SWEET registry, diagnosed <18 years, with documented clinical presentation, HbA1c at onset and follow-up were included. Participants were categorized according to T1D onset: (a) DKA (DKA with coma, DKA without coma, no DKA); (b) HbA1c at onset (low [<10%], medium [10 to <12%], high [≥12%]). To adjust for demographics, linear regression was applied with interaction terms for DKA and HbA1c at onset groups (adjusted means with 95% CI). Association between year-three HbA1c and both HbA1c and presentation at onset was analyzed (Vuong test).

RESULTS

Among 1420 children (54% males; median age at onset 9.1 years [Q1;Q3: 5.8;12.2]), 6% of children experienced DKA with coma, 37% DKA without coma, and 57% no DKA. Year-three HbA1c was lower in the low compared to high HbA1c at onset group, both in the DKA without coma (7.1% [6.8;7.4] vs 7.6% [7.5;7.8], P = .03) and in the no DKA group (7.4% [7.2;7.5] vs 7.8% [7.6;7.9], P = .01), without differences between low and medium HbA1c at onset groups. Year-three HbA1c did not differ among HbA1c at onset groups in the DKA with coma group. HbA1c at onset as an explanatory variable was more closely associated with year-three HbA1c compared to presentation at onset groups (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Year-three HbA1c is more closely related to HbA1c than to DKA at onset; earlier hyperglycemia detection might be crucial to improving year-three HbA1c.

Incidence, prevalence and clinical manifestations at onset of juvenile diabetes in Tanzania

Better knowledge on incidence, prevalence and clinical manifestations is needed for planning diabetes care in Sub Saharan Africa.

AIMS

To find a crude incidence/prevalence of diabetes in children and young adults in a low resource setting, classify the diabetes and audit the health record keeping.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study based on medical recordings 2010-2016. Target population was children and adolescent registered in Changing Diabetes in Children (CDiC) or Life for a Child (LFAC) programs for children with T1DM and diagnosed at 5 diabetes clinics in three geographical regions of Tanzania. 604 patients' files were available from five hospitals.

RESULTS

336/604 files covered patients <15 years of age at diagnosis. The prevalence of diabetes <15 years of age ranged from 10.1 to 11.9 per 100,000 children and the annual incidence 1.8-1.9/100,000 children, with peak incidence at 10-14 years. A lot of data were missing. The great majority of the patients presented with typical signs and symptoms of T1D, 83.7% with plausible ketoacidosis (DKA).

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes incidence and prevalence is still low. T1D seems to dominate with very high frequency of DKA at diagnosis. Increased awareness of diabetes both in health care and community is needed.

Incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes children in western Saudi Arabia: 11-year experience

Background A wide range of reports on the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children have been published worldwide. Reports from Saudi Arabia are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence, clinical pattern and severity of DKA in children with newly diagnosed T1DM and the association of autoimmune conditions with initial DKA occurrence at King Abdulaziz Medical City - Jeddah. Methods This retrospective chart review was conducted during the period 2005-2015. All newly diagnosed T1DM children during the study period were investigated (n = 390). Data were collected on the demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), DKA severity, length of hospital stay and follow-up data on the type of diabetes therapy. Results The incidence of DKA among newly diagnosed T1DM pediatric patients was 37.7% (n = 147). Moderate and severe DKA cases were significantly higher among female children (p = 0.04). Patients diagnosed with DKA had lower BMI (20.87 ± 5.21) than their counterparts (p = 0.03). The median length of hospital stay was higher among severe DKA compared to moderate and mild cases (5.0, 4.5 and 4.0 days, respectively). Conclusions The incidence of DKA among newly diagnosed T1DM is still high compared to developed countries; however, it is relatively lower than previous reports in Saudi Arabia. Immediate interventions, such as awareness campaigns, are vital to reduce the burden of this preventable health sequela among children with DM.

Risk of ketoacidosis in children at the time of diabetes mellitus diagnosis by primary caregiver status: a population-based retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis is the leading cause of death among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus, and is an avoidable complication at first-time diagnosis of diabetes. Because having a usual provider of primary care is important in improving health outcomes for children, we tested the association between having a usual provider of care and risk of diabetic ketoacidosis at onset of diabetes.

METHODS

Using linked health administrative data for the province of Quebec, we conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of children aged 1-17 years in whom diabetes was diagnosed from 2006 to 2015. We estimated adjusted risk ratios (RRs) for an episode of diabetic ketoacidosis at the time of diabetes diagnosis in relation to usual provider of care (family physician, pediatrician or none) using Poisson regression models with robust error variance.

RESULTS

We identified 3704 new cases of diabetes in Quebec children from 2006 to 2015. Of these, 996 (26.9%) presented with diabetic ketoacidosis. A decreased risk of this complication was associated with having a usual provider of care; the association was stronger with increasing age, reaching statistical significance among those aged 12-17 years. Within this age group, those who had a family physician or a pediatrician were 31% less likely (adjusted RR 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56-0.85) or 38% less likely (adjusted RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.45-0.86), respectively, to present with diabetic ketoacidosis, relative to those without a usual provider of care.

INTERPRETATION

For children with newly diagnosed diabetes, having a usual provider of care appears to be important in decreasing the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis at the time of diabetes diagnosis. Our results provide further evidence concerning the need for initiatives that promote access to primary care for children.

Misdiagnosis and Diabetic Ketoacidosis at Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes: Patient and Caregiver Perspectives

IN BRIEF Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication that frequently occurs at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, occurs more commonly when a patient is misdiagnosed, is the leading cause of death in children with type 1 diabetes, and is associated with worse long-term outcomes. Our retrospective online survey found that 25% of all participants were misdiagnosed and that misdiagnosis was associated with an 18% increased risk for DKA compared to those correctly diagnosed. Adult providers should consider type 1 diabetes when diagnosing type 2 diabetes, and pediatric providers should rule out type 1 diabetes when a patient reports nonspecific viral symptoms.

Association of socioeconomic status and DKA readmission in adults with type 1 diabetes: analysis of the US National Readmission Database

OBJECTIVE

To identify patient and hospital predictors of recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) admissions in adults in the USA with type 1 diabetes, focusing on socioeconomic indicators.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study used the National Readmission Database to identify adult patients with type 1 diabetes admitted for DKA between 2010 and 2015. The index DKA admission was defined as the first admission within the calendar year and the primary outcome was recurrent DKA admission(s) within the same calendar year. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using covariates of patient and hospital factors at the index admission to determine the odds of DKA readmission(s).

RESULTS

Among 181 284 index DKA admissions, 39 693 (22%) had at least one readmission within the calendar year, of which 33 931 (86%) and 5762 (14%) had 1-3 and ≥4 DKA readmissions, respectively. When compared with the highest income quartile, patients in the first and second income quartiles had 46% (95% CI 30% to 64%) and 34% (95% CI 19% to 51%) higher odds of four or more DKA readmissions, respectively. Medicaid and Medicare insurance were both associated with a 3.3-fold adjusted risk (95% CI 3.0 to 3.7) for ≥4 readmissions compared with private insurance, respectively. Younger age, female sex, and discharge against medical advice were also predictive.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower socioeconomic status and Medicaid insurance are strong predictors of DKA readmissions in adults with type 1 diabetes in the USA. Further studies are needed to understand the mediators of this association to inform multilevel interventions for this high-risk population.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The association of socioeconomic status (SES) and hospital admission for DKA has been studied in pediatrics with type 1 diabetes, but the data in adults are limited, and studies evaluating recurrent DKA admissions are scarcer. To our knowledge, this is the first study to describe predictors of recurrent DKA admissions in adults with type 1 diabetes on a national level in the USA. We found that those at highest risk of recurrent DKA are young women with low SES who had Medicaid or Medicare insurance. These findings should prompt further studies to explore the mediators of these disparities in patients with type 1 diabetes, as recurrent DKA results in high healthcare utilization and increased risk of long-term complications.

Systematic review of publicity interventions to increase awareness amongst healthcare professionals and the public to promote earlier diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children and young people

BACKGROUND

Children with new onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) are at risk of developing the life-threatening condition ketoacidosis if they have a delayed diagnosis. The rate of children presenting in ketoacidosis remains high in a number of countries worldwide. To ensure interventions to raise awareness of symptoms are effective a systematic review was conducted to evaluate previous publicity campaigns.

METHODS

A range of databases was searched using search terms relating to T1D, publicity campaigns, and symptom awareness. Identified articles were checked against the inclusion criteria, ensuring interventions were designed to target individuals prior to diagnosis of T1D. Papers were independently assessed under the criteria specified within the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist.

RESULTS

The initial search retrieved 1537 papers and following screening 20 were identified for full consideration. Thirteen did not meet the inclusion criteria, leaving 7 to be assessed. Of these 7, 2 observational case-control studies reported a reduction in the rate of ketoacidosis following a publicity campaign using posters and providing glucose testing equipment to primary healthcare professionals. Four observational cohort studies, utilized posters, and media campaigns; 2 reported a reduction in the rate of ketoacidosis and 2 reported no difference following their interventions. A feasibility study, not designed to evaluate effectiveness, reported some anecdotal evidence of a more timely diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Due to the methodological limitations of the studies identified, it is not possible to make a definitive conclusion on the effectiveness of the interventions reported.

Relationship between islet autoantibody status and the clinical characteristics of children and adults with incident type 1 diabetes in a UK cohort

OBJECTIVES

To describe the characteristics of children and adults with incident type 1 diabetes in contemporary, multiethnic UK, focusing on differences between the islet autoantibody negative and positive.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

SETTING

146 mainly secondary care centres across England and Wales.

PARTICIPANTS

3312 people aged ≥5 years were recruited within 6 months of a clinical diagnosis of type 1 diabetes via the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network. 3021 were of white European ethnicity and 291 (9%) were non-white. There was a small male predominance (57%). Young people <17 years comprised 59%.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Autoantibody status and characteristics at presentation.

RESULTS

The majority presented with classical osmotic symptoms, weight loss and fatigue. Ketoacidosis was common (42%), especially in adults, and irrespective of ethnicity. 35% were overweight or obese. Of the 1778 participants who donated a blood sample, 85% were positive for one or more autoantibodies against glutamate decarboxylase, islet antigen-2 and zinc transporter 8. Presenting symptoms were similar in the autoantibody-positive and autoantibody-negative participants, as was the frequency of ketoacidosis (43%vs40%, P=0.3). Autoantibody positivity was less common with increasing age (P=0.0001), in males compared with females (82%vs90%, P<0.0001) and in people of non-white compared with white ethnicity (73%vs86%, P<0.0001). Body mass index was higher in autoantibody-negative adults than autoantibody-positive adults (median, IQR 25.5, 23.1-29.2vs23.9, 21.4-26.7 kg/m²; P=0.0001). Autoantibody-negative participants were more likely to have a parent with diabetes (28%vs16%, P<0.0001) and less likely to have another autoimmune disease (4%vs8%, P=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Most people assigned a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes presented with classical clinical features and islet autoantibodies. Although indistinguishable at an individual level, autoantibody-negative participants as a group demonstrated features more typically associated with other diabetes subtypes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN66496918; Pre-results.

Diabetic ketoacidosis as the onset of type 1 diabetes in children

Not available.

Establishing the feasibility of a community and primary health care intervention to raise awareness of symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes-The Early Detection of Type 1 Diabetes in Youth (EDDY) study

AIMS

To design, develop, and evaluate the feasibility of delivering a multi-component community based intervention to parents and primary health care professionals to raise awareness of the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in childhood in 3 adjoining borough counties of South Wales.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Parent and primary health care advisory groups were established to design the intervention. Qualitative interviews with stakeholders and parents assessed the acceptability, feasibility and any potential impact of the intervention.

RESULTS

The parent component of the intervention developed was a re-useable shopping bag with the 4 main symptoms of T1D illustrated on the side, based on the road traffic system of red warning triangles and an octagon "stop" sign stating "Seek Medical Help". Accompanying the bag was an A5 leaflet giving further information. Both were overwrapped with clear plastic and delivered to 98% (323/329) schools, equating to 101 371 children. The primary health care professional component was a dual glucose/ketone meter, single use lancets, stickers, the A5 parent leaflet displayed as a poster and an educational visit from a Community Diabetes Liaison Nurse. 87% (73/84) of GP practices received the intervention, 100% received the materials. The intervention was delivered within Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend. Qualitative analyses suggest that the intervention raised awareness and had some impact.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that it is feasible and acceptable to design, develop and deliver a community based intervention to raise awareness of T1D. There is some suggestion of impact but a definitive evaluation of effectiveness is still required.

High incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes among Polish children aged 10-12 and under 5 years of age: A multicenter study

AIM

Despite its characteristic symptoms, type 1 diabetes (T1D) is still diagnosed late causing the development of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of DKA and factors associated with the development of acidosis at T1D recognition in Polish children aged 0-17.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 2100 children with newly diagnosed T1D in the years 2010-2014 in 7 hospitals in eastern and central Poland. The population living in these areas accounts for 35% of the Polish population. DKA was defined as a capillary pH < 7.3, blood glucose > 11 mmol/L. The analyzed data included age, sex, diabetes recognition, pH, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting C-peptide, and body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-SDS).

RESULTS

We observed DKA in 28.6% of children. There were 2 peaks in DKA occurrence: in children <5 years of age (33.9%) and aged 10-12 (34%). The highest incidence of DKA was noted in children aged 0-2 (48.4%). In the group with DKA, moderate and severe DKA occurred in 46.7% of children. Girls and children <2 years of age were more prone to severe DKA. The multiple logistic regression analysis showed the following factors associated with DKA: age (P = .002), fasting C-peptide (P = .0001), HbA1c (P = .0001), no family history of T1D (P = .0001), and BMI-SDS (P = .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of DKA is high and remained unchanged over the last 5 years. Increasing the awareness of symptoms of DKA is recommended among children <5 years of age (especially <2 years of age) and aged 10-12. Children <2 years of age and girls were at the highest risk of severe DKA.

A survey of youth with new onset type 1 diabetes: Opportunities to reduce diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric patients in Colorado with new onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) increased from 29.9% to 46.2% from 1998 to 2012. The purpose of this study was to compare differences between patients with newly diagnosed T1D who presented in DKA with those who did not across three domains: sociodemographic factors, access to medical care, and medical provider factors, aiming to identify potential targets for intervention.

METHODS

Sixty-one patients <17 years of age with T1D duration <6 months completed the questionnaire. Groups were compared using Fisher's exact test or the Kruskal-Wallis test.

RESULTS

Parents of 28% of patients researched their child's symptoms on the Internet prior to diagnosis. At the first healthcare visit for symptoms of T1D, 23% were not diagnosed. There were no significant differences between groups (DKA vs non-DKA) in demographics, first healthcare setting for T1D symptoms, provider type at first visit or at diagnosis, insurance status, or specific barriers to care. DKA patients had a longer interval between previous well visit to diagnosis (median 172 vs 263 days, P = 0.01). Non-DKA patients were more likely to have blood glucose measured at P = 0.02, and had fewer symptoms prior to (P = 0.01) the first visit for diabetes symptoms. Parents of non-DKA patients were more likely to be familiar with symptoms of diabetes (P < 0.001) and to suspect diabetes (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Targets for campaigns to prevent DKA include increasing provider glucose and ketone testing, increasing public knowledge about diabetes, and understanding how socio-demographic factors may delay T1D diagnosis.

Pathways to reduce diabetic ketoacidosis with new onset type 1 diabetes: Evidence from a regional pediatric diabetes center: Auckland, New Zealand, 2010 to 2014

BACKGROUND

There has been little change in the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children and adolescents in most developed countries.

OBJECTIVES

To assess potentially modifiable antecedents of DKA in children <15 years of age with new onset T1DM.

METHODS

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a complete regional cohort of children with T1DM in Auckland (New Zealand) from 2010 to 2014. DKA and severity were defined according to the ISPAD 2014 guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 263 children presented with new onset T1DM during the 5-year study period at 9.0 years of age (range 1.0-14.7), of whom 61% were NZ-European, 14% Maori, 13% Pacifica, and 11% other. A total of 71 patients (27%) were in DKA, including 31 mild, 20 moderate, and 20 severe DKA. DKA was associated with no family history of T1DM, higher glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values at presentation, self-presenting to secondary care, health care professional contacts in the 4 weeks before final presentation, and greater deprivation. Although a delay in referral from primary care for laboratory testing was common (81/216), only delay for more than 48 hours was associated with increased risk of DKA (11/22 > 48 h vs 12/59 referred at <48 h, P = .013).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that in addition to lack of family awareness potentially modifiable risk factors for new onset DKA include prolonged delay for laboratory testing and a low index of medical suspicion for T1DM leading to delayed diagnosis.

High frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in Italian children: a nationwide longitudinal study, 2004-2013

This longitudinal population-based study analyses the frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at type 1 diabetes diagnosis in Italian children under 15 years of age, during 2004-2013. DKA was defined as absent (pH ≥ 7.30), mild/moderate (7.1 ≤ pH < 7.30) and severe (pH < 7.1). Two multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the time trend of DKA frequency considered as present versus absent and severe versus absent, adjusted for gender, age group and geographical area of residence at diagnosis. Overall, 9,040 cases were ascertained. DKA frequency was 40.3% (95%CI: 39.3-41.4%), with 29.1% and 11.2% for mild/moderate and severe DKA, respectively. Severe DKA increased significantly during the period (OR = 1.03, 95%CI: 1.003-1.05). Younger-age children and children living in Southern Italy compared to Central Italy were at significantly higher risk of DKA and severe DKA. Family history of type 1 diabetes and residence in Sardinia compared to Central Italy were significantly associated with a lower probability of DKA and severe DKA. The high frequency of ketoacidosis in Italy over time and high variability among age groups and geographical area of residence, strongly suggests a continuing need for nationwide healthcare strategies to increase awareness of early detection of diabetes.

An Evaluation of Recurrent Diabetic Ketoacidosis, Fragmentation of Care, and Mortality Across Chicago, Illinois

OBJECTIVE

A portion of patients with diabetes are repeatedly hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), termed recurrent DKA, which is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. This study evaluated recurrent DKA, fragmentation of care, and mortality throughout six institutions in the Chicago area.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A deidentified Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-compliant data set from six institutions (HealthLNK) was used to identify 3,615 patients with DKA (ICD-9 250.1x) from 2006 to 2012, representing 5,591 inpatient admissions for DKA. Demographic and clinical data were queried. Recurrence was defined as more than one DKA episode, and fragmentation of health care was defined as admission at more than one site.

RESULTS

Of the 3,615 patients, 780 (21.6%) had recurrent DKA. Patients with four or more DKAs (n = 211) represented 5.8% of the total DKA group but accounted for 26.3% (n = 1,470) of the encounters. Of the 780 recurrent patients, 125 (16%) were hospitalized at more than one hospital. These patients were more likely to recur (odds ratio [OR] 2.96; 95% CI 1.99, 4.39; P < 0.0001) and had an average of 1.88-times the encounters than nonfragmented patients. Although only 13.6% of patients died of any cause during the study period, odds of death increased with age (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.05, 1.07; P < 0.001) and number of DKA encounters (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.04, 1.58; P = 0.02) after adjustment for age, sex, insurance, race, fragmentation, and DKA visit count. This study was limited by lack of medical record-level data, including comorbidities without ICD-9 codes.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent DKA was common and associated with increased fragmentation of health care and increased mortality. Further research is needed on potential interventions in this unique population.

Ketoacidosis at first presentation of type 1 diabetes mellitus among children: a study from Kuwait

We examined the frequency and severity of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in 679 children and adolescents (0-14 years) at diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in Kuwait. Between 1(st) January 2011 and 31(st) December 2013, all newly diagnosed children with diabetes were registered prospectively in a population-based electronic register. DKA was diagnosed using standard criteria based on the levels of venous pH and serum bicarbonate. At the time of diagnosis, mild/moderate DKA was present in 24.8% of the children, while severe DKA was present in 8.8%. Incidence of ketoacidosis was significantly higher in young children less than 2 (60.7% vs 32.4% p = <0.005) compared to children 2-14 years old, and a higher proportion presented with severe DKA (21.4% vs 8.3% p = <0.05). No association was seen with gender. Significant differences were found in the incidence of DKA between Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti children (31.1% vs 39.8%; p < 0.05). Family history of diabetes had a protective effect on the occurrence of DKA (OR = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.27-0.71). Incidence of DKA in children at presentation of T1DM remains high at 33.6%. Prevention campaigns are needed to increase public awareness among health care providers, parents and school teachers in Kuwait.

National survey of the management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in the UK in 2014

AIM

To examine, in a national survey, the outcomes of adult patients presenting with DKA in 2014, mapped against accepted UK national guidance.

METHODS

Data were collected in a standardized form covering clinical and biochemical outcomes, risk and discharge planning. The form was sent to all UK diabetes specialist teams (n = 220). Anonymized data were collected on five consecutive patients admitted with DKA between 1 May 2014 and 30 November 2014.

RESULTS

A total of 283 forms were received (n = 281 patients) from 72 hospitals, of which 71.4% used the national guidelines. The results showed that 7.8% of cases occurred in existing inpatients, 6.1% of admissions were newly diagnosed diabetes and 33.7% of patients had had at least one episode of DKA in the preceding year. The median times to starting 0.9% sodium chloride and intravenous insulin were 41.5 and 60 min, respectively. The median time to resolution was 18.7 h and the median length of hospital stay was 2.6 days. Significant adverse biochemical outcomes occurred, with 27.6% of patients developing hypoglycaemia and 55% reported as having hypokalaemia. There were also significant issues with care processes. Initial nurse-led observations were carried out well, but subsequent patient monitoring remained suboptimal. Most patients were not seen by a member of the diabetes specialist team during the first 6 h, but 95% were seen before discharge. A significant minority of discharge letters to primary care did not contain necessary information.

CONCLUSION

Despite widespread adoption of national guidance, several areas of management of DKA are suboptimal, being associated with avoidable biochemical and clinical risk.

High Frequency of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children with Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis in children and adolescents with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes in 2006-2007 and 2013-2014.

METHOD

The study group consisted of 426 children aged 0-18 years with type 1 diabetes onset admitted to our hospital in 2006-2007 (group A) and 2013-2014 (group B). The study comprised the analysis of medical and laboratory records from patients' medical charts and the electronic database.

RESULTS

There was no difference between groups A and B in the percentage of children admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (25% versus 28%, resp., P = 0.499). Among children with diabetic ketoacidosis, severe metabolic decompensation (pH < 7.1) appeared in similar frequency in groups A and B (28% versus 30%, resp., P = 0.110). In group B, children with diabetic ketoacidosis were statistically younger compared to patients without ketoacidosis (P = 0.015) and had higher HbA1c levels (P = 0.006). In both groups, a 2-fold increase in diabetic ketoacidosis was noted in children under the age of 3, compared to overall frequency.

CONCLUSION

No decrease in diabetic ketoacidosis has been noted in the recent years. Although the prevalence and severity of diabetic ketoacidosis remain stable, they are unacceptably high. The youngest children are especially prone to ketoacidosis.

A Multicenter Retrospective Survey regarding Diabetic Ketoacidosis Management in Italian Children with Type 1 Diabetes

We conducted a retrospective survey in pediatric centers belonging to the Italian Society for Pediatric Diabetology and Endocrinology. The following data were collected for all new-onset diabetes patients aged 0–18 years: DKA (pH < 7.30), severe DKA (pH < 7.1), DKA in preschool children, DKA treatment according to ISPAD protocol, type of rehydrating solution used, bicarbonates use, and amount of insulin infused. Records (n = 2453) of children with newly diagnosed diabetes were collected from 68/77 centers (87%), 39 of which are tertiary referral centers, the majority of whom (n = 1536, 89.4%) were diagnosed in the tertiary referral centers. DKA was observed in 38.5% and severe DKA in 10.3%. Considering preschool children, DKA was observed in 72%, and severe DKA in 16.7%. Cerebral edema following DKA treatment was observed in 5 (0.5%). DKA treatment according to ISPAD guidelines was adopted in 68% of the centers. In the first 2 hours, rehydration was started with normal saline in all centers, but with different amount. Bicarbonate was quite never been used. Insulin was infused starting from third hour at the rate of 0.05–0.1 U/kg/h in 72% of centers. Despite prevention campaign, DKA is still observed in Italian children at onset, with significant variability in DKA treatment, underlying the need to share guidelines among centers.

Care of diabetes in children and adolescents: controversies, changes, and consensus

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic medical disorders in children. The management of diabetes remains a substantial burden on children with diabetes and their families, despite improvements in treatment and rates of morbidity and mortality. Although most children with diabetes have type 1 diabetes, the increasing recognition of type 2 diabetes and genetic forms of diabetes in the paediatric population has important treatment implications. Diabetes therapy focuses strongly on targets for good metabolic control to reduce the risk of long-term complications. A parallel goal is to minimise short-term complications of hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. Technology offers opportunity for improvement in care, but has not yet fully lived up to its potential. New insights into the pathogenesis of diabetes and the development of new therapies have led to clinical trials aimed at the prevention of diabetes.

15-year incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis at onset of type 1 diabetes in children from a regional setting (Auckland, New Zealand)

We assessed the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children aged <15 years with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in the Auckland Region (New Zealand) in 1999–2013, in a retrospective review of a complete regional cohort. DKA and its severity were classified according to ISPAD 2014 guidelines. Of 730 children presenting with new-onset T1DM over the 15-year time period, 195 cases had DKA of any severity (27%). There was no change in the incidence of DKA or the proportion of children with severe DKA at presentation. The incidence of DKA among children aged <2.0 years (n = 40) was 53% compared to 25% for those aged 2–14 years (n = 690; p = 0.005). In children aged 2–14 years, increasing age at diagnosis was associated with greater likelihood of DKA at presentation (p = 0.025), with the odds of DKA increasing 1.06 times with each year increase in age. Non-Europeans were more likely to present in DKA than New Zealand Europeans (OR 1.52; p = 0.048). Despite a consistent secular trend of increasing incidence of T1DM, there was no reduction in the incidence of DKA in new-onset T1DM in the Auckland Region over time. Thus, it is important to explore ways to reduce DKA risk.

The pathway to diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children: a questionnaire study

OBJECTIVE

To explore the pathway to diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children.

DESIGN

Questionnaire completed by parents.

PARTICIPANTS

Parents of children aged 1 month to 16 years diagnosed with T1D within the previous 3 months.

SETTING

Children and parents from 11 hospitals within the East of England.

RESULTS

88/164 (54%) invited families returned the questionnaire. Children had mean±SD age of 9.41±4.5 years. 35 (39.8%) presented with diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis. The most common symptoms were polydipsia (97.7%), polyuria (83.9%), tiredness (75.9%), nocturia (73.6%) and weight loss (64.4%) and all children presented with at least one of those symptoms. The time from symptom onset to diagnosis ranged from 2 to 315 days (median 25 days). Most of this was the appraisal interval from symptom onset until perceiving the need to seek medical advice. Access to healthcare was good but one in five children presenting to primary care were not diagnosed at first encounter, most commonly due to waiting for fasting blood tests or alternative diagnoses. Children diagnosed at first consultation had a shorter duration of symptoms (p=0.022) and children whose parents suspected the diagnosis were 1.3 times more likely (relative risk (RR) 1.3, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.67) to be diagnosed at first consultation.

CONCLUSIONS

Children present with the known symptoms of T1D but there is considerable scope to improve the diagnostic pathway. Future interventions targeted at parents need to address the tendency of parents to find alternative explanations for symptoms and the perceived barriers to access, in addition to symptom awareness.