Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a dangerous condition that can occur when a severe lack of insulin causes the body to break down fats instead of glucose (blood sugar) for energy. This process causes acidic waste products called ketones to build up in the blood.

If untreated, DKA can lead to diabetic coma or death. However, with proper medical treatment, patients can recover from DKA and prevent it from recurring.

Ketoacidosis may develop because of an infection or illness. This condition may also develop when people fail to control their diabetes, as a result of pregnancy complications or from an eating disorder.

DKA is most common with type 1 diabetes, although it can also affect those with type 2 diabetes or other forms of diabetes. The American Diabetes Association estimates that DKA is responsible for 10 percent of all diabetes-related deaths for diabetic individuals under the age of 45.

DKA develops because of three factors:

• A severe lack of insulin
• Very high levels of glucose (severe hyperglycemia)
• Very high levels of ketones (severe ketosis)

The typical treatment options for DKA are intravenous (I.V.) treatments and replacement of lost insulin. Patients can reduce their risk of DKA by:

• Adhering to their prescribed diet
• Taking insulin and other medication as prescribed
• Monitoring glucose and performing ketone tests
• Following a prescribed sick-day plan
• Taking precautions against infections and injuries
• Ensuring caregivers’ education