Exams and Tests

The diagnosis of DKA is typically made after a history and physical examination and laboratory tests are performed.

• Blood tests will be used to check the levels of blood sugar, potassium, sodium, and other electrolytes. Ketone levels and kidney function markers along with an arterial blood gas sample, which provides a determination of the blood acid concentration (pH), are also standard.

• Other tests may be used to check for conditions that may have triggered the DKA, based on the history and physical examination findings. These may include chest x-ray, ECG, urine analysis, and possibly CT scan of the brain.