Diabetic ketoacidosis

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the commonest cause of diabetes-related deaths in children
• Most deaths in DKA occur as a result of cerebral edema
• Deaths and neurological morbidity should be avoidable by 

• Reducing the incidence of DKA by
  • earlier diagnosis at onset
  • appropriate management of diabetes during intercurrent illness
  • recognition that recurrent DKA is often caused by insulin omission
• Optimal management of DKA

No protocol for DKA has been shown to eliminate the risk of cerebral edema. These consensus guidelines are believed to be the safest available in the light of current evidence and clinical practice

Recommendations

In centers treating DKA, a clear, unambiguous, written protocol, adapted to local circumstances, should always be immediately available A senior specialist/consultant physician with experience in managing DKA in children should be consulted for advice