Deaths associated with diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar coma. 1973-1988

Gastric emptying during and following resolution of moderate diabetic ketoacidosis in type 1 diabetes: a case series

INTRODUCTION

To use the 'gold standard' technique of scintigraphy to quantify gastric emptying (GE) as soon as practicable during an admission with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and following its resolution at least 7 days later.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Five patients with type 1 diabetes, age 29±12 years; Body Mass Index 23±3 kg/m2; hemoglobin A1c 11.3%±1.9%, were studied during an admission with DKA and following its resolution. Solid and liquid GE were measured using scintigraphy. Solid emptying was assessed via the percentage intragastric retention at 100 min and that of liquid by the 50% emptying time.

RESULTS

There was no difference in either solid or liquid GE at the initial study compared with the follow-up. Median (IQR) solid retention was 47±20 versus 38%±33%, respectively; p=0.31, and time to empty 50% of liquid was 37±25 min versus 35±15 min, p=0.31, at the initial and follow-up GE study, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

GE of solids and liquids is not affected by moderate DKA, inferring that earlier reintroduction of oral intake may be appropriate.

Perioperative challenges in management of diabetic patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery

Prediabetes and diabetes are important disease processes which have several perioperative implications. About one third of the United States population is considered to have prediabetes. The prevalence in surgical patients is even higher. This is due to the associated micro and macrovascular complications of diabetes that result in the need for subsequent surgical procedures. A careful preoperative evaluation of diabetic patients and patients at risk for prediabetes is essential to reduce perioperative mortality and morbidity. This preoperative evaluation involves an optimization of preoperative comorbidities. It also includes optimization of antidiabetic medication regimens, as the avoidance of unintentional hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes during the perioperative period is crucial. The focus of the perioperative management is to ensure euglycemia and thus improve postoperative outcomes. Therefore, prolonged preoperative fasting should be avoided and close monitoring of blood glucose should be initiated and continued throughout surgery. This can be accomplished with either analysis in blood gas samples, venous phlebotomy or point-of-care testing. Although capillary and arterial whole blood glucose do not meet standard guidelines for glucose testing, they can still be used to guide insulin dosing in the operating room. Intraoperative glycemic control goals may vary slightly in different protocols but overall the guidelines suggest a glucose range in the operating room should be between 140 mg/dL to 180 mg/dL. When hyperglycemia is detected in the operating room, blood glucose management may be initiated with subcutaneous rapid-acting insulin, with intravenous infusion or boluses of regular insulin. Fluid and electrolyte management are other perioperative challenges. Notably diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic state are the two most serious acute metabolic complications of diabetes that must be recognized early and treated.

Review of Evidence for Adult Diabetic Ketoacidosis Management Protocols

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an endocrine emergency with associated risk of morbidity and mortality. Despite this, DKA management lacks strong evidence due to the absence of large randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

OBJECTIVE

To review existing studies investigating inpatient DKA management in adults, focusing on intravenous (IV) fluids; insulin administration; potassium, bicarbonate, and phosphate replacement; and DKA management protocols and impact of DKA resolution rates on outcomes.

METHODS

Ovid Medline searches were conducted with limits "all adult" and published between "1973 to current" applied. National consensus statements were also reviewed. Eligibility was determined by two reviewers' assessment of title, abstract, and availability.

RESULTS

A total of 85 eligible articles published between 1973 and 2016 were reviewed. The salient findings were (i) Crystalloids are favoured over colloids though evidence is lacking. The preferred crystalloid and hydration rates remain contentious. (ii) IV infusion of regular human insulin is preferred over the subcutaneous route or rapid acting insulin analogues. Administering an initial IV insulin bolus before low-dose insulin infusions obviates the need for supplemental insulin. Consensus-statements recommend fixed weight-based over "sliding scale" insulin infusions although evidence is weak. (iii) Potassium replacement is imperative although no trials compare replacement rates. (iv) Bicarbonate replacement offers no benefit in DKA with pH > 6.9. In severe metabolic acidosis with pH < 6.9, there is lack of both data and consensus regarding bicarbonate administration. (v) There is no evidence that phosphate replacement offers outcome benefits. Guidelines consider replacement appropriate in patients with cardiac dysfunction, anaemia, respiratory depression, or phosphate levels <0.32 mmol/L. (vi) Upon resolution of DKA, subcutaneous insulin is recommended with IV insulin infusions ceased with an overlap of 1-2 h. (vii) DKA resolution rates are often used as end points in studies, despite a lack of evidence that rapid resolution improves outcome. (viii) Implementation of DKA protocols lacks strong evidence for adherence but may lead to improved clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

There are major deficiencies in evidence for optimal management of DKA. Current practice is guided by weak evidence and consensus opinion. All aspects of DKA management require RCTs to affirm or redirect management and formulate consensus evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes.

Incidence and outcome of adults with diabetic ketoacidosis admitted to ICUs in Australia and New Zealand

Background

Over the last two decades, there have been several improvements in the management of diabetes. Whether this has impacted on the epidemiology and outcome of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission is unknown.

Method

This was a retrospective study of 8533 patients with the diagnosis of DKA admitted to 171 ICUs in Australia and New Zealand between 2000–2013 with separate independent analysis of those on established insulin (Group I) or not on insulin (Group NI) at the time of hospitalisation.

Results

Of the 8553 patients, 2344 (27 %) were identified as NI. The incidence of ICU admission with DKA progressively increased fivefold from 0.97/100,000 (95 % CI 0.84–1.10) in 2000 to 5.3/100,000 (95 % CI 4.98–5.53) in 2013 (P < 0.0001), with the proportions between I and NI remaining stable. Rising incidences were observed mainly in rural and metropolitan hospitals (P < 0.01). In the first 24 hours in the ICU, mean worst pH increased over the study period from 7.20 ± 0.02 to 7.24 ± 0.01 (P < 0.0001), and mean lowest plasma bicarbonate from 12.1 ± 6.6 to 13.8 ± 6.6 mmol/L (P < 0.0001). In contrast, mean highest plasma glucose decreased from 26.3 ± 14 to 23.2 ± 13.1 mmol/L (P < 0.0001). Hospital mortality was significantly greater in NI as compared to I (2.4 % vs 1.1 %, P > 0.0001). Elevated plasma urea in the first 24 hours (≥25 mmol/L, adjusted odds ratio 20.6 (6.54–65.7), P < 0.0001) was the strongest individual predictor of mortality.

Conclusions

The incidence of ICU admission of patients with DKA in Australia and New Zealand has increased fivefold over the last decade, with a significant proportion of patients not on insulin at presentation. Overall physiological status in the first 24 hours of ICU admission has progressively improved and mortality rates have remained stable. However, DKA patients not on established insulin therapy at presentation had significantly worse outcomes. This notion has epidemiologic, diagnostic and management implications.

Presumed paradoxical embolus in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis

Thrombotic complications figure among the most frequent causes of mortality in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar state. We report the case of a 55-year-old woman presenting with DKA whereby a newly discovered patent foramen ovale was found due in part to the observation of bilateral deep vein thrombosis in legs, bilateral multiple pulmonary embolisms, and left subclavian acute artery thrombosis. Diabetes is known as a hypercoagulability state, and DKA is rising as a risk factor for vascular events. The importance of prophylactic anticoagulation should be emphasized in this setting.

Peri-operative management of the surgical patient with diabetes 2015: Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland

Diabetes affects 10-15% of the surgical population and patients with diabetes undergoing surgery have greater complication rates, mortality rates and length of hospital stay. Modern management of the surgical patient with diabetes focuses on: thorough pre-operative assessment and optimisation of their diabetes (as defined by a HbA1c < 69 mmol.mol(-1) ); deciding if the patient can be managed by simple manipulation of pre-existing treatment during a short starvation period (maximum of one missed meal) rather than use of a variable-rate intravenous insulin infusion; and safe use of the latter when it is the only option, for example in emergency patients, patients expected not to return to a normal diet immediately postoperatively, and patients with poorly controlled diabetes. In addition, it is imperative that communication amongst healthcare professionals and between them and the patient is accurate and well informed at all times. Most patients with diabetes have many years of experience of managing their own care. The purpose of this guideline is to provide detailed guidance on the peri-operative management of the surgical patient with diabetes that is specific to anaesthetists and to ensure that all current national guidance is concordant.

Association between diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalizations and driving distance to outpatient diabetes centres in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) hospitalization and driving distance from home to outpatient diabetes care in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

We identified adults with type 1 diabetes using clinical and administrative databases living in Calgary, Alberta. The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, codes were used to identify DKA hospitalizations, and geographic information systems were used to obtain road distance. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between driving distance (exposure) to diabetes care sites and the outcome of DKA hospitalization.

RESULTS

We identified 1467 patients (151 patients with DKA) with type 1 diabetes. Patients with DKA hospitalizations were younger (35.6 vs. 41.0 years), had shorter duration of diabetes (13.6 vs. 18.7 years) and higher glycated hemoglobin (9.2% vs. 8.4%). Driving distance from home to diabetes centre 1 (adjusted odds ratio 1.02 per 1 km; 95% confidence interval, 0.96 to 1.07), diabetes centre 2 (adjusted odds ratio 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.99 to 1.04) or closest general practitioner (adjusted odds ratio 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.63 to 1.25) was not associated with DKA hospitalization. Driving distance was also not associated with glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Within a large urban city, driving distance to diabetes centres does not appear to be protective of DKA hospitalization. However, this work does not preclude the role of local travel distance and diabetes outcomes. More research is required to explore the role of other individual, neighbourhood and community factors that influence DKA hospitalization.

Clinical significance of troponin elevations in acute decompensated diabetes without clinical acute coronary syndrome

Background

Elevation of cardiac troponin has been documented in multiple settings without acute coronary syndrome. However, its impact on long-term cardiac outcomes in the context of acute decompensated diabetes remains to be explored.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 872 patients admitted to Temple University Hospital from 2004–2009 with DKA or HHS. Patients were included if they had cardiac troponin I (cTnI) measured within 24 hours of hospital admission, had no evidence of acute coronary syndrome and had a follow up period of at least 18 months. Of the 264 patients who met the criteria, we reviewed the baseline patient characteristics, admission labs, EKGs and major adverse cardiovascular events during the follow up period. Patients were categorized into two groups with normal and elevated levels of cardiac enzymes. The composite end point of the study was the occurrence of a major cardiovascular event (MACE) during the follow up period and was compared between the two groups.

Results

Of 264 patients, 24 patients were found to have elevated cTnI. Compared to patients with normal cardiac enzymes, there was a significant increase in incidence of MACE in patients with elevated cTnI. In a regression analysis, which included prior history of CAD, HTN and ESRD, the only variable that independently predicted MACE was an elevation in cTnI (p = 0.044). Patients with elevated CK-MB had increased lengths of hospitalization compared to the other group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Elevated cardiac troponin I in patients admitted with decompensated diabetes and without evidence of acute coronary syndrome, strongly correlate with a later major cardiovascular event. Thus, elevated troponin I during metabolic abnormalities identify a group of patients at an increased risk for poor long-term outcomes. Whether these patients may benefit from early detection, risk stratification and preventive interventions remains to be investigated.

NHS Diabetes guideline for the perioperative management of the adult patient with diabetes

These Joint British Diabetes Societies guidelines, commissioned by NHS Diabetes, for the perioperative management of the adult patient undergoing surgery are available in full in the Supporting Information. This document goes through the seven stages of the patient journey when having surgery. These are: primary care referral; surgical outpatients; preoperative assessment; hospital admission; surgery; post-operative care; discharge. Each stage is given its own considerations, outlining the roles and responsibilities of each group of healthcare professionals. The evidence base for the recommendations made at each stage, discussion of controversial areas and references are provided in the report. This document has two key recommendations. Firstly, that the management of the elective adult surgery patients should be with modification to their usual diabetes treatment if the fasting is minimized because the routine use of a variable rate intravenous insulin infusion is not recommended. Secondly, that poor preoperative glycaemic control leads to post-outcomes and thus, where appropriate, needs to be addressed prior to referral for surgery.

Joint British Diabetes Societies guideline for the management of diabetic ketoacidosis

The Joint British Diabetes Societies guidelines for the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (these do not cover Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic Syndrome) are available in full at: (i) http://www.diabetes.org.uk/About_us/Our_Views/Care_recommendations/The-Management-of-Diabetic-Ketoacidosis-in-Adults; (ii)  http://www.diabetes.nhs.uk/publications_and_resources/reports_and_guidance; (iii) http://www.diabetologists-abcd.org.uk/JBDS_DKA_Management.pdf. This article summarizes the main changes from previous guidelines and discusses the rationale for the new recommendations. The key points are: Monitoring of the response to treatment (i) The method of choice for monitoring the response to treatment is bedside measurement of capillary blood ketones using a ketone meter. (ii) If blood ketone measurement is not available, venous pH and bicarbonate should be used in conjunction with bedside blood glucose monitoring to assess treatment response. (iii) Venous blood should be used rather than arterial (unless respiratory problems dictate otherwise) in blood gas analysers. (iv) Intermittent laboratory confirmation of pH, bicarbonate and electrolytes only. Insulin administration (i) Insulin should be infused intravenously at a weight-based fixed rate until the ketosis has resolved. (ii) When the blood glucose falls below 14 mmol/l, 10% glucose should be added to allow the fixed-rate insulin to be continued. (iii) If already taking, long-acting insulin analogues such as insulin glargine (Lantus(®), Sanofi Aventis, Guildford, Surry, UK) or insulin detemir (Levemir(®), Novo Nordisk, Crawley, West Sussex, UK.) should be continued in usual doses. Delivery of care (i) The diabetes specialist team should be involved as soon as possible. (ii) Patients should be nursed in areas where staff are experienced in the management of ketoacidosis.

Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults in Denmark: a national survey

The aims of this study were to investigate management routines of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in adult patients in departments of internal medicine in Denmark and to relate current routines of treatment to available evidence. A questionnaire requesting information on management routines of DKA was sent to all departments of internal medicine in Denmark responsible of managing DKA. Fifty-nine departments (88%) returned the questionnaire and/or a copy of their management protocol. At 19 departments (32%), all patients with DKA were managed in an intensive care unit (ICU). Twenty-four different insulin regimens and 21 fluid protocols were identified. Routines of insulin therapy varied in terms of doses and routes of administration. Fifty-eight departments (97%) used isotonic saline for hydration. Potassium supplements were administered as a separate infusion of either isotonic potassium-sodium-chloride (83%) or isotonic potassium-chloride (10%). Recommended volumes to be administered during the first 8h of treatment varied significantly (median 4800ml, range 3750-7700ml). Use of bicarbonate was endorsed by 80%. This study shows significant variations in management routines of DKA in Denmark. In many cases, the treatment routines employed are not supported by evidence from clinical trials. We recommend implementation of national and/or European guidelines for management of DKA in adult patients.

Diabetic ketoacidosis in Denmark Incidence and mortality estimated from public health registries

The aims of this study were to estimate incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis and mortality from diabetic ketoacidosis using data from public health registries. Four thousand eight hundred and seven admissions in the period 1996-2002 and 137 deaths in the period 1996-2000 with a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis were identified from the Danish National Patient Registry and Danish Cause of Death Registry, respectively. Annual incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis in the general population was estimated to 12.9 per 100,000, being higher in males than in females (14.4 versus 11.4 per 100,000, p<0.0001). Twelve percent of all patients were classified as Type 2 diabetes, predominantly in patients >50 years. Overall mortality was 4%, being higher in patients >70 years than in patients < or =70 years (15% versus 2%, p<0.0001). One or more additional somatic diagnoses were stated on 77% of the death certificates, most often a diagnosis of cardiovascular (47%) or infectious (30%) diseases. Compared to previous studies, the incidence in the general population seems to have remained unaltered the past 25 years, but may have decreased in younger patients. Older patients with diabetic ketoacidosis differed from younger patients in having a higher mortality and a larger proportion of patients classified as Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetic and endocrine emergencies

Endocrine emergencies constitute only a small percentage of the emergency workload of general doctors, comprising about 1.5% of all hospital admission in England in 2004-5. Most of these are diabetes related with the remaining conditions totalling a few hundred cases at most. Hence any individual doctor might not have sufficient exposure to be confident in their management. This review discusses the management of diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state, hypoglycaemia, hypercalcaemia, thyroid storm, myxoedema coma, acute adrenal insufficiency, phaeochromocytoma hypertensive crisis and pituitary apoplexy in the adult population.

Acute lower limb ischemia is a frequent complication of severe diabetic hyperosmolarity

AIM

To describe the outcome of intensive care unit (ICU) patients admitted with a hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome (HHNS), with a specific analysis of precipitating conditions and complications including lower limb ischemia.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients admitted in a university-hospital ICU for HHNS.

RESULTS

Seventeen consecutive patients (9F/8M, age: 75 years [57-81] (median [25-75% percentiles], Glasgow Coma score: 13 [12-14]) were admitted for HHNS over an 8-year period (1998-2005). On admission, the blood glucose level was 40.0 mmol/l [26.3-60.8], the corrected serum sodium concentration 167 mmol/l [158-174], and the calculated plasma osmolarity 384 mosmol/l [365-405]. All the patients presented with renal failure due to severe dehydration. An infection was identified as the precipitating factor in 8/17 cases. Three (18%) patients died in the ICU. Non-survivors were significantly older than survivors (P=0.02). Using univariate analysis, no other parameter measured on admission was related to mortality. Four patients (24%) presented with lower limb ischemia. They had a significantly more elevated blood urea nitrogen (P=0.03), creatinine phosphokinase level (P=0.04), and leukocyte count (P=0.02). The bilateral, symmetrical, and distal extremity involvement suggested diminished blood flow due to hyperviscosity, hypotension, vasoconstrictors, or cholesterol emboli rather than a proximal arterial obstruction as causative mechanisms. No patient was treated surgically. Ischemia reversed with fluid loading and resulted in toe dry digital necrosis.

CONCLUSION

HHNS is a rare but life-threatening cause of ICU admission. There is a high incidence of lower limb ischemia in HHNS patients, which may be related to dehydration and blood hyperviscosity.

Extensive venous thrombosis of the upper extremity in a diabetic patient with a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state

We report a case of extensive venous thrombosis of the upper extremity in a patient with a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS). Thrombosis of the upper extremities is generally found in 4% of cases with deep venous thrombosis. Extensive, symptomatic venous thrombosis of the upper extremity, as seen in this patient, is rare except with catheter-related thrombosis. Recent studies have supported the safety and efficacy of catheter-directed thrombolysis in patients with no contraindication to thrombolytic therapy, and have recommended early catheter-directed thrombolysis. Therefore, our patient was treated with early catheter-directed thrombolysis followed by anticoagulation.

Diabetic ketoacidosis complicated by axillary vein thrombosis

A case is presented of a 39-year-old male with Down's Syndrome, who also had type 1 diabetes of 22 years duration. He presented with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)-arterial blood pH 7.17, plasma bicarbonate 13.6mmol/l, plasma glucose 26.4mmol/l and urine heavily positive for ketones. He recovered with standard intravenous fluid and insulin treatment, but on the third day of admission developed a swollen left arm (which had not been used for intravenous cannulation). Doppler ultrasound confirmed a left axillary vein thrombosis. This slowly resolved with anticoagulation. Review of the available literature revealed that though arterial thrombosis is a common complication of DKA, venous thromboembolism is surprisingly rare, and there appear to be no previous specific reports of axillary vein thrombosis complicating DKA.

Approach to management of malignant hyperthermia-like syndrome in pediatric diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) is usually associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and is rare in children. However, a fatal malignant hyperthermia-like syndrome (MHLS) with rhabdomyolysis associated with new-onset diabetes mellitus and HHNS in adolescents has been described.

DESIGN/METHODS

Case series.

RESULTS

A 16-yr-old obese male (case A) and a 10-yr-old mid-pubertal nonobese female (case B) presented within a 6-month period with emesis, altered mental status, blood glucose >1600 mg/dL, and laboratory evidence of rhabdomyolysis. Case A developed fever after initiation of insulin therapy, along with refractory hypotension and multiorgan failure. He died 14 hrs after admission. Case B developed fever before insulin therapy, was treated with dantrolene, and made a full recovery. Metabolic workup showed evidence of short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (SCAD) deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

We report two cases of malignant hyperthermia-like syndrome associated with HHNS in adolescents. Their respective fluid management and clinical courses are described. Dantrolene therapy should be initiated immediately after this syndrome is recognized. We believe it is unlikely insulin is the sole trigger for MHLS. Case B is unique in that there was evidence of SCAD deficiency, a metabolic defect that we propose could lead to MHLS. We recommend that all patients with HHNS and MHLS be evaluated for an underlying metabolic disorder.

Acute Aortoiliac and Femoral Artery Thrombosis Complicating Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Acute abdominal aortic occlusion is a devastating event with high associated rates of morbidity and mortality even with surgical intervention. This report describes a case of acute aortoiliac and femoral artery occlusion likely resulting from a hypercoagulable state caused by diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Vascular thrombosis is a little-known but potentially devastating complication of DKA that should be considered in every patient treated for DKA and should be added to the differential diagnoses when attempting to determine the etiology of a thrombosed vessel.

Diabetic ketoacidosis: risk factors and management strategies

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most common hyperglycemic emergency in patients with diabetes mellitus. DKA most often occurs in patients with type 1 diabetes, but patients with type 2 diabetes are susceptible to DKA under stressful conditions, such as trauma, surgery, or infections. DKA is reported to be responsible for more than 100 000 hospital admissions per year in the US, and accounts for 4-9% of all hospital discharge summaries among patients with diabetes. Treatment of patients with DKA uses significant healthcare resources and accounts for 1 out of every 4 healthcare dollars spent on direct medical care for adult patients with type 1 diabetes in the US. Recent studies using standardized written guidelines for therapy have demonstrated a mortality rate of less than 5%, with higher mortality rates observed in elderly patients and those with concomitant life-threatening illnesses. Worldwide, infection is the most common precipitating cause for DKA, occurring in 30-50% of cases. Urinary tract infection and pneumonia account for the majority of infections. Other precipitating causes are intercurrent illnesses (i.e., surgery, trauma, myocardial ischemia, pancreatitis), psychological stress, and non-compliance with insulin therapy. The triad of uncontrolled hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis and increased total body ketone concentration characterizes DKA. These metabolic derangements result from the combination of absolute or relative insulin deficiency and increased levels of counter-regulatory hormones (glucagon, catecholamines, cortisol, and growth hormone). Successful treatment of DKA requires frequent monitoring of patients, correction of hypovolemia and hyperglycemia, replacement of electrolyte losses, and careful search for the precipitating cause. Since the majority of DKA cases occur in patients with a known history of diabetes, this acute metabolic complication should be largely preventable through early detection, and by the education of patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. The frequency of hospitalizations for DKA has been reduced following diabetes education programs, improved follow-up care, and access to medical advice. Novel approaches to patient education incorporating a variety of healthcare beliefs and socioeconomic issues are critical to an effective prevention program.

Insights into the acute cerebral metabolic changes associated with childhood diabetes

AIMS

Type 1 diabetes is a prevalent chronic disease in childhood with the commonest single cause of death being cerebral oedema in the context of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The nature of the alterations in cerebral metabolism that may result in vulnerability to neuronal injury remains unknown. The aim of this study was to analyse the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) brain data from eight children with diabetes following acute presentation with hyperglycaemia with or without ketoacidosis, to determine the nature and timing of any alterations in cerebral structure and metabolism.

METHODS

This study used MRI and MRS to investigate regional cerebral abnormalities in a small series of diabetic patients with and without DKA. Changes were compared with the clinical and biochemical features of the patients studied.

RESULTS

Our small series of patients all demonstrated abnormal signal changes in the frontal region on fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MR imaging, suggestive of oedema, and spectroscopic abnormalities of increased taurine, myoinositol and glucose levels. The MR abnormalities varied in severity but did not correlate with any clinical or biochemical parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

These changes indicate that many diabetic children, particularly at presentation, may have alterations in cerebral metabolism with implications for the pathogenesis and treatment of the cerebral complications of DKA. In addition, our findings suggest that increased taurine may be one of the important differentiating factors in the response of the brain of diabetic children to DKA that may reflect an increase in their vulnerability to cerebral oedema compared with diabetic adults.

Efficacy of subcutaneous insulin lispro versus continuous intravenous regular insulin for the treatment of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous insulin lispro with that of a standard low-dose intravenous infusion protocol of regular insulin in patients with uncomplicated diabetic ketoacidosis.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized open trial, 20 patients treated with subcutaneous insulin lispro were managed in regular medicine wards (n=10) or an intermediate care unit (n=10), while 20 patients treated with the intravenous protocol were managed in the intensive care unit. Patients treated with subcutaneous lispro received an initial injection of 0.3 unit/kg followed by 0.1 unit/kg/h until correction of hyperglycemia (blood glucose levels <250 mg/dL), followed by 0.05 to 0.1 unit/kg/h until resolution of diabetic ketoacidosis (pH > or =7.3, bicarbonate > or =18 mEq/L). Patients treated with intravenous regular insulin received an initial bolus of 0.1 unit/kg, followed by an infusion of 0.1 unit/kg/h until correction of hyperglycemia, then 0.05 to 0.1 unit/kg/h until resolution of diabetic ketoacidosis.

RESULTS

Mean (+/- SD) admission biochemical parameters in patients treated with subcutaneous lispro (glucose: 674 +/- 154 mg/dL; bicarbonate: 9.2 +/- 4 mEq/L; pH: 7.17 +/- 0.10) were similar to values in patients treated with intravenous insulin (glucose: 611 +/- 264 mg/dL; bicarbonate: 10.6 +/- 4 mEq/L; pH: 7.19 +/- 0.08). The duration of treatment until correction of hyperglycemia (7 +/- 3 hours vs. 7 +/- 2 hours) and resolution of ketoacidosis (10 +/- 3 hours vs. 11 +/- 4 hours) in patients treated with subcutaneous lispro was not different than in patients treated with intravenous regular insulin. There were no deaths in either group, and there were no differences in the length of hospital stay, amount of insulin until resolution of diabetic ketoacidosis, or in the rate of hypoglycemia between treatment groups. Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in the intensive care unit was associated with 39% higher hospitalization charges than was treatment with subcutaneous lispro in a non-intensive care setting ($14,429 +/- $5243 vs. $8801 +/- $5549, P <0.01).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of adult patients who have uncomplicated diabetic ketoacidosis with subcutaneous lispro every hour in a non-intensive care setting may be safe and more cost-effective than treatment with intravenous regular insulin in the intensive care unit.

Hyperglycaemic crises and lactic acidosis in diabetes mellitus

Diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state, and lactic acidosis represent three of the most serious acute complications of diabetes. There have been some advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of these conditions over the last three decades, together with more uniform agreement on their treatment and innovations in technology. Accordingly their incidence, morbidity, and mortality are decreasing, but at rates that fall short of our aspirations. Hyperglycaemic crises in particular remain an important cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic populations around the world. In this article, understanding of these conditions and advances in their management, and the available guidelines for their treatment, are reviewed. As far as is possible, the recommendations are based on clear published evidence; failing that, what is considered to be a common sense synthesis of consensus guidelines and recommendations is provided.

Increased cardiac troponin I concentration in diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the hypothesis that diabetic ketoacidosis may be associated with some degree of induced injury to heart muscle, related either to acidosis or hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Nineteen diabetic patients with acute ketoacidosis and 19 healthy children were enrolled in this study. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase (CK)-MB and myoglobin levels were analyzed soon after admission and after 24 h. Patients were subdivided into two groups according to blood pH.

RESULTS

At the time of admission, the diabetic patients had significantly higher values than the controls for cTnI (0.193+/-0.008 vs 0.176+/-0.006 ng/dl; p <0.001), CK-MB (24.1+/-2.1 vs 22.7+/-1.2 U/l; p = 0.02), and myoglobin (85.5+/-7.4 vs 52.5 +/-8.3 microg/dl; p <0.001). The diabetic patients also had significantly higher values than the controls for CK-MB (24+/-2.1 vs 22.7+/-1.2 U/l; p = 0.02) and for myoglobin (78.5+/-2.5 vs 52.5+/-8.3 microg/dl; p <0.001) at 24 h. cTnI had normalized in patients at 24 h. All parameters were significantly different between patients with pH > or =7.0 and patients with pH <7.0. In addition, serum cTnI levels correlated negatively with blood pH (r = -0.57, p = 0.026) and HCO3- (r = -0.65, p = 0.008) in the patients with diabetic ketoacidosis on admission.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that diabetic ketoacidosis, particularly when severe, has a detrimental effect on the myocardium.

Effects of increased concentrations of glucose on platelet reactivity in healthy subjects and in patients with and without diabetes mellitus

Hyperglycemia has been linked to adverse outcomes after myocardial infarction. We characterized the effect of selected concentrations of glucose or mannitol on platelet function in whole blood samples from healthy volunteers and from patients with and without diabetes mellitus. Activation of platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and P-selectin expression was increased similarly after addition of isosmotic concentrations of glucose and mannitol, suggesting that increased osmolarity associated with hyperglycemia increases platelet reactivity.

Ketoacidosis at onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children--frequency and clinical presentation

BACKGROUND

Since 1987, patients with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus type 1 under 15 yr of age have been registered in Baden-Wuerttemberg (BW), Germany.

AIM

Our aim was to describe the frequency and the clinical presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children.

METHODS

All 31 pediatric departments in BW and one diabetes center participated in this study. Hospital records of 2121 children below 15 yr of age were examined retrospectively. DKA was defined as glucose > 250 mg/dL, pH < 7.30 or bicarbonate < 15 mmol/L and ketonuria. Statistical analysis was done after logarithmic transformation.

RESULTS

26.3% (n = 558) of all patients presented with DKA. The mean age of these patients was 7.9 yr. The frequency of DKA is higher in girls than in boys (28.9 vs. 23.8%; p = 0.0079). Those aged 0-4 yr suffered most frequently (p < 0.0001) from ketoacidosis (36.0%). The percentage of DKA in newly diagnosed cases was constant over 10 yr. 23.3% of all patients with DKA presented with an altered level of consciousness; 10.9% of these had clinical signs of coma. No deaths occurred. The proportion of ketoacidosis does not increase concurrently with the number of diabetes manifestations in winter.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of DKA in children with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus is significant. In particular, children < 5 yr and girls face an increased risk. DKA may be the result of a particularly aggressive subtype of diabetes.

Predictors of intensive care unit and hospital length of stay in diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the predictive value for prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay (LOS) in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) of the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score and Logistic Organ Dysfunction System (LODS), and to identify associated characteristics.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort, 18-month observation.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

All admissions to a 12-bed, inner-city, university-affiliated hospital, medical ICU from July 1999 to December 2000.

MEASUREMENTS

Data for APACHE II and LODS scoring systems were collected within 24 hours of admission. Lengths of ICU and hospital stay were the primary outcomes. Prolonged ICU and hospital LOS were defined as 3 or more and 6 or more days.

RESULTS

A total of 584 patients, mean age 49, 56% men, 82% African American were admitted to the ICU. At admission they had (mean +/-SD) APACHE II (18 +/- 10), LODS (5 +/- 4), and predicted mortality of 32% +/- 29%. DKA was the admitting diagnosis in 42 (7.6%) patients; they had lower APACHE II (12 +/- 6), LODS (2 +/- 1), and predicted mortality 5% +/- 5% than the general ICU population (all, P <.001). Hospital mortality in non-DKA patients was 18%; there were no deaths in patients with DKA. Among DKA patients, those with insulin noncompliance had a shorter hospital stay (2.8 +/- 1 d) than those with an underlying illness as the DKA trigger (4.8 +/- 3, P =.02). Between patients with DKA, regardless of the LOS, there were no significant differences in APACHE II, LODS, or predicted mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

ICU-admitted patients with DKA are less ill, and have lower disease severity scores, mortality, and shorter length of ICU and hospital stay than non-DKA patients. Disease severity scores are not, but precipitating cause is, predictor associated with prolonged hospital LOS in patients with DKA.

A mortality prediction model in diabetic ketoacidosis

AIM

To assess the value of clinical and laboratory parameters in predicting mortality in patients presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

METHODS

The records of all DKA admissions within 10 years were reviewed. Eighteen variables were evaluated at initial presentation and 20 variables at 4, 12 and 24 h from admission. A scoring system derived from these variables was compared to the APACHE III scoring system.

RESULTS

Among 154 patients (52 males, mean age 58 +/- 12 years), 20 (13%) died in hospital. Multivariate analysis yielded six variables as significant independent predictors (P < 0.05) of mortality: severe coexisting diseases (SCD) and pH < 7.0, at presentation; units of regular insulin required in the first 12 h > 50 and serum glucose > 16.7 mmo/l, after 12 h; depressed mental state and fever, after 24 h. An integer-based scoring system was derived, as follows: number of points = 6 (SCD at presentation) + 4 (pH < 7.0 at presentation) + 4 (regular insulin required > 50 IU after 12 h) + 4 (serum glucose > 16.7 mmo/l after 12 h) + 4 (depressed mental state after 24 h) + 3 (fever after 24 h). Patients with 0-14 points had 0.86% risk of death, whereas for those with 19-25 points the risk was 93.3%. Median APACHE III scores differed significantly (P < 0.001) among groups of patients stratified according to the above scoring system.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk stratification of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis is possible from simple clinical and laboratory variables available during the first day of hospitalization.

Acute myocardial infarction in a 12-year-old as a complication of hyperosmolar diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE: This report describes the evolution of an acute myocardial infarction in a 12-yr-old male with severe hyperosmolarity secondary to diabetic ketoacidosis. DESIGN: Case report. SETTING: Intensive care unit of a university teaching hospital. Patient: A 12-yr-old male with new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis and an abnormal electrocardiogram. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The evolution of an acute myocardial infarction in this patient is described. This includes serial electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and enzymatic changes. Early recognition of this complication of diabetic ketoacidosis prompted immediate initiation of antithrombotic therapy and possible prevention of infarct extension. CONCLUSION: This report demonstrates the need for accurate electrocardiographic monitoring in these patients, both for arrhythmias as well as ischemic changes and the potential for myocardial injury caused by hyperosmolarity.

Abdominal pain in patients with hyperglycemic crises

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence and prognosis of abdominal pain in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic state (HHS). Abdominal pain, sometimes mimicking an acute abdomen, is a frequent manifestation in patients with DKA. The prevalence and clinical significance of gastrointestinal symptoms including abdominal pain in HHS have not been prospectively evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospectively collected evaluation of 200 consecutive patients with hyperglycemic crises admitted to a large inner-city teaching hospital in Atlanta, GA.We analyzed the admission clinical characteristics, laboratory studies, and hospital course of 189 consecutive episodes of DKA and 11 cases of HHS during a 13-month period starting in October 1995.

RESULTS

Abdominal pain occurred in 86 of 189 patients with DKA (46%). In 30 patients, the cause of abdominal pain was considered to be secondary to the precipitating cause of metabolic decompensation. Five of them required surgical intervention including 1 patient with Fournier's necrotizing fasciitis, 1 with cholecystitis, 1 with acute appendicitis, and 2 patients with perineal abscess. The presence of abdominal pain was not related to the severity of hyperglycemia or dehydration; however, a strong association was observed between abdominal pain and metabolic acidosis. In DKA patients with abdominal pain, the mean serum bicarbonate (9 +/- 1 mmol/L) and blood pH (7.12 +/- 0.02) were lower than in patients without pain (15 +/- 1 mmol/L and 7.24 +/- 0.09, respectively, both P <.001). Abdominal pain was present in 86% of patients with serum bicarbonate less than 5 mmol/L, in 66% of patients with levels of 5 to less than 10 mmol/L, in 36% of patients with levels 10 to less than 15 mmol/L, and in 13% of patients with bicarbonate levels 15 to 18 mmol/L. Patients with DKA and abdominal pain had a more frequent history of alcohol (51%) and cocaine abuse (13%) than those without abdominal pain (24% and 2%, respectively, both P <.001). One patient with HHS reported nausea and vomiting on admission, but abdominal pain was not reported in any patient with HHS.

CONCLUSIONS

Gastrointestinal manifestations including abdominal pain are common in patients with DKA and are associated with severe metabolic acidosis and with a history of alcohol or cocaine abuse, but not with the severity of hyperglycemia or dehydration. Our study indicates that investigation of the etiology of abdominal pain in DKA should be reserved for patients without severe metabolic acidosis or if the pain persists after the resolution of ketoacidosis.

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) are life-threatening acute metabolic complications of diabetes mellitus. Although there are some important differences, the pathophysiology, the presenting clinical challenge, and the treatment of these metabolic derangements are similar. Each of these complications can be seen in type 1 or type 2 diabetes, although DKA is usually seen in patients with type 1 diabetes and HHNS in patients with type 2 disease. The clinical management of these syndromes involves careful evaluation and correction of the metabolic and volume status of the patient, identification and treatment of precipitating and comorbid conditions, a smooth transition to a long-term treatment regimen, and a plan to prevent recurrence.

Diabetic ketoacidosis in children

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious condition that warrants immediate and aggressive intervention. Even with appropriate intervention, DKA is associated with significant morbidity and possible mortality in diabetic patients in the pediatric age group. With appreciation of its severity, proper understanding of the pathophysiology, and careful attention to the details of management and close monitoring, most cases will have a satisfactory outcome. Because treatment is costly and because the risk for morbidity remains even under the best of circumstances, prevention of DKA must be a major goal in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Involvement and close follow-up by a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals with experience in dealing with diabetes in children and adolescents is the best way to avoid DKA.

Metabolic acidosis

Metabolic acidosis is a pathophysiologic state that is associated with serious morbidities and mortality. The diagnosis of metabolic acidosis is perplexing for novice and expert advanced practice nurses for many reasons. Its differential diagnosis is broad and includes common and rare, complex disease. The diagnosis of metabolic acidosis is also difficult because it is frequently associated with mixed, acid-base disorders. Its clinical manifestations are often nonspecific or subclinical, which means that its diagnosis is made from laboratory and other diagnostic tests. Timely diagnosis of metabolic acidosis is needed to institute appropriate therapy to avoid negative physiologic effects.

Studies of avoidable factors influencing death: a call for explicit criteria

OBJECTIVE

To analyse studies evaluating cases of potentially "avoidable" death.

DESIGN

The definitions, sources of information, and methods were reviewed with a structured protocol. The different types of avoidable factors,--that is, deficiencies in medical care that may have contributed to death--were categorised. The presence of explicit classifications and standards was examined. basic criteria for quality of the studies were defined and the numbers of studies fulfilling these criteria were assessed.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

65 studies, published during 1988-93 in peer reviewed medical journal for which the title, or abstract, or both indicated that they had analysed potentially avoidable factors influencing death. Studies analysing aggregated data only, were not included.

RESULTS

Only one third of the studies fulfilled basic quality criteria,--namely, that the avoidable factors examined should be defined and the sources of information and people responsible for the judgements presented. The definitions used comprised two levels, one stating that there had been errors in management (process) and the other that the errors may have contributed to the deaths (outcome). Only 15% of the studies explicitly defined what type of factors they had looked for and 8% referred to specified standards of care.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies of avoidable factors influencing death may have considerable potential as part of a system of improving medical care and reducing avoidable mortality. At present, however, the results from different studies are not comparable, due to differences in materials and methods. There is a need to improve the quality of the studies and to define standardised explicit definitions and classifications.

Abnormal insulin treatment behaviour: a major cause of ketoacidosis in the young adult

Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs more frequently in the young adult population than in any other age group. In a 3-year retrospective casenote review of all patients admitted with ketoacidosis to this hospital, we have defined the clinical characteristics of ketoacidosis in this age group. Young adults (< 25 years) had worse preceding glycaemic control (median HbA1 14.6 vs 10.1%, p = 0.0001) and more frequent episodes of ketoacidosis in the previous 5 years (3 vs 0, p = 0.0001) than older adults (> 25 years); on admission they had lower blood urea concentrations (p = 0.0001) and had a lower incidence of systolic hypotension (6% vs 32%, p = 0.007). There were fewer complications of ketoacidosis in the young adults, and the duration of hospital stay was less than that in the older age group (4 vs 8 days, p = 0.0003). Young adults were less likely to have a proven underlying infective or other organic precipitant for ketoacidosis, but were investigated and treated in a similar way to older adults. Insulin error or manipulation was identified in 42% of young adults; abnormal insulin treatment behaviour is likely to be the major cause of ketoacidosis in this age group.

Resource utilization in treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults

This study defines determinants of cost of treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis. A chart review for 92 cases of ketoacidosis from 1988 to 1992 in 40 females and 25 males (age range 18 to 81) showed a length of stay of 5.7 +/- 4.9 d. Length of stay did not correlate with the level of nursing care or any other component of the initial order set. Length of stay was shorter in cases managed by diabetologists. Length of stay was inversely proportional to the interval from arrival to the first shot of intermediate or long-acting insulin. Length of stay was longer in subjects with a positive bacterial culture (mean, 9.1 d) and was longer in subjects who arrived in the evening. There was a female predominance in total and recurrent cases of ketoacidosis. Female patients received fewer educational sessions than males. The grade of acidosis affected the duration of acidemia, but the grade of acidosis, APACHE scores, and admission lab values did not correlate with length of stay. The use of an intensive care unit (ICU) included more testing and expense without uniform clear benefit. Optimal transition from intensive to routine management includes resumption of long-acting insulins as soon as possible. Optimization of hospital care and reduction of incidence of ketoacidosis in females would have a marked effect on health care costs.

Persisting mortality in diabetic ketoacidosis

An overall hospital mortality rate of 3.9% was found in 929 episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis treated in single centre over a 21-year period. The mortality rate in the first half of the survey (4.4%) was not significantly different from that in the second half of the survey (3.4%). Six deaths in patients under 50 years of age occurred in the first half, but only one death under 50 years occurred in the second half of the survey. The number of deaths from a metabolic cause where no other illness was identified also fell from nine (43% of deaths) in the first half to five (33% of deaths) in the second half of the study (not significant). The remaining deaths were due to concurrent illness, mainly myocardial infarction and serious infections. Many of the residual deaths occurred in elderly patients with such medical illness in addition to the ketoacidosis. It may, therefore, prove difficult to reduce mortality further in diabetic ketoacidosis.

Treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis and non-ketotic hyperosmolar diabetic coma

Although mortality of diabetic ketoacidosis (KA) has decreased during the past 20 yr to 1-2%, hyperosmolar non-ketotic coma (HNC) is still lethal in 20-30% of cases due to severe underlying conditions or to complications. The most frequent causes of death are infections and thromboembolic disorders. The strategies of initial treatment of KA and HNC are similar; in KA, insulin, fluid and electrolyte replacement have first priority. In HNC, rehydration and electrolyte administration are of primary importance. It is now generally recognized that insulin therapy is best performed using low doses (4-8 units/h); after institution of insulin treatment and rehydration there are rapid changes of fluid and electrolytes from the extra- into the intravascular space. In this situation it is a major therapeutic challenge to avoid complications due to hypokalaemia, hypophosphataemia, hypomagnesaemia and hypovolaemia. These complications should be avoided by adequate replacement, and particularly by regular clinical and laboratory monitoring. When blood glucose concentrations decrease below 14 mmols/l, blood glucose concentrations should initially be maintained at this level because rapid lowering below this level may increase the risk of brain oedema. Too-vigorous fluid replacement with crystalline solutions also increases the risk that brain oedema or complications like the adult respiratory distress syndrome will develop. If hypovolaemia persists in spite of adequate crystalloid solutions, colloid-containing fluids such as albumin should be administered. It is not established whether replacements of phosphate and magnesium have clinical benefits. Nevertheless, it is probably justified to administer phosphate and magnesium when their serum concentrations are below the normal range, particularly if the clinical situation is critical. Mortality from diabetic coma in industrialized countries may only be decreased by prophylaxis, i.e. by education of all diabetic patients and physicians to detect metabolic decompensation early.

Practical management of diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar coma

In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and particularly in hyperosmolar coma, rapid normalisation of the measured extracellular fluid abnormalities cannot be equated with optimal management. In both disorders there are complex imbalances between extra- and intracellular compartments that are best corrected in a series of rational steps, based on an understanding of pathophysiology. Fluid administration in DKA can generally be divided into three successive phases: (i) a short period of rapid isotonic saline infusion, (ii) slower infusion of isotonic saline with potassium chloride, and (iii) glucose-potassium infusion until oral food intake is well established. In severe cases, there is a definite place for judicious use of isotonic sodium bicarbonate in small amounts. While insulin infusion is desirable, intramuscular insulin remains a satisfactory alternative. Biochemical monitoring is mandatory and management must be reviewed and modified every three to four hours on the basis of the clinical and biochemical response. In the management of hyperosmolar coma, insulin and fluid therapy are more conservative, with the aim of achieving complete rehydration and normoglycaemia only after 36 to 72 hours. Pulmonary complications and the effects of tissue ischaemia, as well as thromboembolic events, remain important causes of death in both disorders. The frequent recurrences of DKA that occur in a group of psychiatrically-unstable young patients remain an unsolved problem.