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May 24, 2013
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Diabetic Ketoacidosis

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Diabetic Ketoacidosis Overview

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) results from dehydration during a state of relative insulin deficiency, associated with high blood levels of sugar level and organic acids called ketones. Diabetic ketoacidosis is associated with significant disturbances of the body's chemistry, which resolve with proper therapy.

Diabetic ketoacidosis usually occurs in people with type 1 (juvenile) diabetes mellitus (T1DM), but diabetic ketoacidosis can develop in any person with diabetes. Since type 1 diabetes typically starts before age 25 years, diabetic ketoacidosis is most common in this age group, but it may occur at any age. Males and females are equally affected.

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Diabetic Ketoacidosis - Symptoms

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Diabetic Ketoacidosis »

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute, major, life-threatening complication of diabetes.

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