Template:DKA clinical features

History

  • May be the initial presenting of an unrecognized T1DM patient
  • Presenting signs/symptoms include altered mental status, tachypnea, abdominal pain
  • Perform a thorough neurologic exam (cerebral edema increases mortality significantly, especially in children)
  • Assess for possible inciting cause (especially for ongoing infection; see Differential Diagnosis section)

Physical

  • Drowsiness
  • Tachypnea (Kussmaul's breathing)
  • Signs of dehydration
  • Perform a thorough neurologic exam as cerebral edema increases mortality significantly, especially in children
  • There may be signs from underlying cause (eg pneumonia)