In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), what happens to blood glucose levels?

In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), blood glucose levels are typically significantly elevated, often reaching above 350 mg/dL. This condition arises primarily in individuals with type 1 diabetes, although it can also occur in type 2 diabetes under certain circumstances. The underlying metabolic disturbance in DKA involves a deficiency of insulin, which leads to the liver producing excess glucose through gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis.

As the body fails to utilize glucose effectively due to insufficient insulin, this elevated glucose not only contributes to the hyperglycemic state but also leads to the production of ketones as an alternative energy source, causing metabolic acidosis. This combination of factors plays a central role in the clinical presentation of DKA, including symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, and altered mental status.

Understanding this relationship between elevated blood glucose levels and DKA is critical for diagnosing and managing the condition effectively.