Diabetes Mellitus
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Questions and Answers

What percentage of type 2 diabetes cases in monozygotic twins suggest strong genetic influences?

  • 70% (correct)
  • 90%
  • 50%
  • 80%
  • Which environmental factor is identified as the most significant cause of insulin resistance?

  • High stress levels
  • Obesity (correct)
  • Dietary sugar intake
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • What type of diabetes is characterized by a genetic basis and non-insulin requiring diabetes in individuals under 25?

  • Gestational diabetes
  • Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) (correct)
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Which of the following is the most common form of MODY?

    <p>MODY 3</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is typically the most important factor for hyperglycemia resolution in secondary diabetes cases?

    <p>Resolution of hormone excess</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between visceral fat and insulin resistance?

    <p>Visceral fat correlates positively with insulin resistance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which drug actions are commonly associated with carbohydrate intolerance or diabetes?

    <p>Decrease insulin secretion and increase insulin resistance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic is TRUE for patients with MODY?

    <p>They have hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin secretion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What fasting plasma glucose level is classified as diagnostic of diabetes?

    <p>126 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which dietary requirement is necessary before conducting an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)?

    <p>At least 150-200 g of carbohydrate daily for 3 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the time frame for the HbA1c measurement to reflect the glycemic state?

    <p>8-12 weeks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is considered a normal result for the 2-hour value during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)?

    <p>Less than 140 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are plasma glucose levels typically higher than whole blood glucose levels?

    <p>Whole blood includes structural components of blood cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A fasting plasma glucose level between which values is associated with an increased risk of diabetes?

    <p>100-125 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After how many hours of fasting should a blood sample be taken for a fasting plasma glucose test?

    <p>8 hours</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended amount of glucose provided during the OGTT?

    <p>75 g</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a Time in Range (TIR) of 70% or more correlate with in terms of HbA1c levels?

    <p>Less than 7%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In type 1 diabetes, uncontrolled hyperglycemia primarily affects which aspect of the lipid profile?

    <p>Slight elevation of LDL cholesterol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic feature of diabetic dyslipidemia in type 2 diabetes?

    <p>High serum triglyceride levels above 300 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of directional arrows in glucose monitoring systems?

    <p>Show the rate and direction of glucose level changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature is NOT typically associated with small dense LDL particles in patients with diabetes?

    <p>Lower plasma glucose concentration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long can a subcutaneous glucose sensor measure glucose concentrations continuously?

    <p>7-14 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What glucose level range defines the Time in Range (TIR) considered optimal?

    <p>70 - 180 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of a TIR below 70% in relation to HbA1c levels?

    <p>Higher than 7%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable symptom of lowered plasma volume related to postural hypotension?

    <p>Serious prognostic sign</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What causes paresthesias in patients at the time of diagnosis?

    <p>Neurotoxicity due to hyperglycemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic odor is indicative of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

    <p>Fruity breath odor of acetone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which manifestation may be the initial complaint indicative of diabetes in women?

    <p>Skin infections</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In patients with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, what condition is typically absent?

    <p>Acidotic breathing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What skin condition is associated with significant insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes?

    <p>Acanthosis nigricans</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen to the level of consciousness due to dehydration from vomiting in ketoacidosis?

    <p>Worsen to stupor or coma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom may be present in patients with type 2 diabetes that often has an insidious onset?

    <p>Neuropathic complications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason type 1 diabetes mellitus requires exogenous insulin?

    <p>To reverse the catabolic state and prevent ketosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus?

    <p>The onset is usually rapid.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT commonly associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus?

    <p>Increased obesity rates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes type 2 diabetes mellitus from type 1 diabetes mellitus?

    <p>Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance rather than autoimmune destruction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For which age group is type 1 diabetes mellitus most commonly diagnosed?

    <p>Children aged 10-14</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

    <p>Sufficient residual beta cell function to avoid ketoacidosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential trigger for type 1 diabetes that has been noted?

    <p>Breastfeeding in infancy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes idiopathic type 1 diabetes?

    <p>This subgroup accounts for approximately 5% of type 1 diabetes cases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common clinical manifestation of peripheral vascular disease?

    <p>Erectile dysfunction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is NOT responsible for the development of gangrene in diabetic patients?

    <p>Tuberculosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided to prevent further reduction in peripheral blood flow?

    <p>Tobacco</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which treatment is useful as adjunctive therapy when dyslipidemia is present?

    <p>Statins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom indicates that pedal pulses are not palpable in ischemic gangrene?

    <p>Cold and pale extremities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aids in the diagnosis of reduced blood flow in patients with palpable pulses?

    <p>Doppler ultrasound examination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is frequently associated with pruritus in women with uncontrolled diabetes?

    <p>Vulvovaginitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which measure is critical for patients at risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers?

    <p>Prevention of foot injury</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of SGLT2 inhibitors in diabetic patients?

    <p>They slow the progression of diabetic nephropathy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In patients with diabetic neuropathy, what is the most common form affecting nerves in a stocking-glove pattern?

    <p>Distal symmetric polyneuropathy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cardiovascular risk factor management is particularly crucial for diabetes patients?

    <p>Addressing obesity and treating other risk factors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What potential side effect is particularly of concern with RAS inhibitors in diabetic patients?

    <p>Hyperkalemia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is recommended regarding ACE inhibitors and ARBs for patients with significant renal impairment?

    <p>Regular monitoring of GFR should commence prior to administration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical method of nerve conduction impact in distal symmetric polyneuropathy?

    <p>Delayed conduction is particularly in both motor and sensory nerves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is the progression to ESRD affected in patients with albuminuria when using ACE inhibitors or ARBs?

    <p>They lower the rate of progression by reducing intraglomerular pressure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is crucial for patients with diabetic nephropathy when using diuretics?

    <p>Potential reduction in diuretic dosing may be required.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What medication is categorized as a controlled substance due to its abuse potential while being effective for treating painful diabetic neuropathy?

    <p>Pregabalin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication might lead to additional anticholinergic side effects compared to others mentioned for neuropathy treatment?

    <p>Amitriptyline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom is commonly associated with cranial nerve involvement in isolated peripheral neuropathy?

    <p>Diplopia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication is utilized primarily as a topical treatment for reducing local nerve pain?

    <p>Lidocaine patch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended dosage range for Gabapentin when treating painful diabetic neuropathy?

    <p>900-1800 mg daily</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of neuropathy is characterized by sudden onset and subsequent recovery of most function?

    <p>Isolated peripheral neuropathy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor approved for painful diabetic neuropathy?

    <p>Duloxetine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common side effect is associated with Nortriptyline when used for painful diabetic neuropathy management?

    <p>Morning drowsiness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which complication is significantly more prevalent in patients with type 1 diabetes compared to those with type 2 diabetes?

    <p>End-stage chronic kidney disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In diabetic patients, which of the following is a major cause of mortality associated with type 2 diabetes?

    <p>Myocardial infarction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor significantly amplifies the risk of both microvascular and macrovascular complications in diabetic patients?

    <p>Cigarette use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is characterized by the absence of renal complications in hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>End-stage chronic kidney disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A major contributing factor to the development of orthostatic hypotension in diabetic patients is primarily due to:

    <p>Loss of peripheral nerve function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable effect of chronic hyperglycemia on lipid profiles in diabetic patients?

    <p>Increased LDL cholesterol and decreased HDL cholesterol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of diabetes is associated with a higher prevalence of vision-threatening ocular complications?

    <p>Type 1 diabetes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism by which diabetic cataracts develop in patients?

    <p>Accumulation of sorbitol due to hyperglycemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of heart disease in patients with diabetes?

    <p>Coronary atherosclerosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which treatment is suggested for relieving incomplete emptying of the bladder in diabetic patients?

    <p>Bethanechol administration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following may worsen symptoms of orthostatic hypotension?

    <p>Fludrocortisone therapy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect do PDE5 inhibitors have on patients using nitrates?

    <p>They are contraindicated due to hypotensive effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a limitation of clonidine when treating diabetic diarrhea?

    <p>It can exacerbate orthostatic hypotension.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is NOT recommended for treating orthostatic hypotension?

    <p>Immediate high-intensity exercise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do stimulant laxatives effectively treat constipation?

    <p>By increasing peristalsis in the colon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What underlying issue may lead to diabetic cardiomyopathy?

    <p>Microvascular complications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason that bicarbonate should only be administered in acute DKA with severe acidosis?

    <p>To mitigate the risk of rebound metabolic alkalosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which mechanism describes how insulin deficiency contributes to the development of DKA?

    <p>Elevated production of counter-regulatory hormones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What consequence can result from the rapid administration of bicarbonate in a DKA patient?

    <p>Potential fatal cardiac arrhythmias due to hypokalemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When transitioning from intravenous insulin to subcutaneous insulin in DKA management, what is the recommended strategy?

    <p>Continue the infusion for 2 hours after the first subcutaneous dose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial consideration when monitoring potassium levels during the treatment of DKA?

    <p>Hyperkalemia is typical until insulin therapy is initiated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What blood glucose level is indicative of Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS)?

    <p>Higher than 500 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What treatment protocol is typically recommended for patients with DKA after resolution?

    <p>Combination of short-acting and long-acting insulin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is important to monitor in connection with severe acidosis during DKA management?

    <p>Cerebral edema due to electrolyte imbalances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most appropriate initial insulin infusion rate for managing a patient with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>0.05 unit/kg/h</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does insulin have on serum potassium levels during treatment of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>Insulin drives potassium into cells, potentially leading to hypokalemia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary ketone measured by nitroprusside reagents in cases of diabetic ketoacidosis?

    <p>Acetoacetic acid</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might severe dehydration in hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state complicate patient outcomes?

    <p>It can lead to increased risk of thromboembolic events.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation is a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis most likely to exhibit hypothermia?

    <p>In the absence of an infection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common recommendation for potassium management in patients with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>Potassium replacement should be started early if potassium levels are not elevated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which treatment protocol is recommended for patients with severe ketoacidosis?

    <p>Admission to the ICU for intensive care</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the overall mortality rate of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state coma substantially high?

    <p>It is frequently seen in older patients with major illnesses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is emphasized in the long-term management strategy after stabilizing a patient with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>Continuing insulin treatment initially, then trialing oral agents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a plausible reason for the elevation of serum amylase and lipase in DKA patients?

    <p>Correlating acute pancreatitis events</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is beta-hydroxybutyric acid measured in blood during diabetic ketoacidosis assessment?

    <p>Using combined glucose and ketone meters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant physiological change that occurs due to insulin in patients experiencing hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>Decreased serum osmolality as glucose levels drop.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should fluid replacement be strategized to prevent complications in patients with severe dehydration due to hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state?

    <p>Fluid replacement must be initiated slowly to avoid complications.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a symptom characteristic of mild DKA?

    <p>Alertness with pH levels between 7.25 and 7.30</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What metabolic disturbance is predominantly involved in the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis?

    <p>Elevated blood glucose and acidosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of replenishing electrolyte losses in the treatment of DKA?

    <p>To prevent dysrhythmias and support metabolic function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of insulin replacement therapy in the treatment of DKA?

    <p>It helps correct acidosis by decreasing fatty acid flux to the liver.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might administering potassium replacement be critical during DKA treatment?

    <p>To avoid the development of hypokalemia post-acidosis correction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the management of DKA, what is the maximum recommended decrease in glucose concentration per hour?

    <p>$50-70$ mg/dL/h</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could result from over-correction of acidosis with sodium bicarbonate in DKA management?

    <p>Hypokalemia from a rapid shift of potassium into cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does hypokalemia have on the administration of insulin during DKA treatment?

    <p>Insulin therapy should be delayed until potassium levels are corrected.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does insulin treatment affect serum osmolality in DKA patients?

    <p>It decreases serum osmolality by reducing hyperglycemia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended infusion rate for potassium replacement in DKA management?

    <p>10-30 mEq/h</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the process of insulin deficiency correction in DKA?

    <p>It helps by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis in the liver.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key consideration when initiating fluid replacement therapy in DKA?

    <p>It can lead to cerebral edema if not done slowly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What serum osmolality value typically leads to lethargy and confusion in hyperglycemic patients?

    <p>310 mOsm/kg</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the management of severe hyperglycemia, which initial fluid replacement is preferable for hyperosmolar patients?

    <p>0.45% saline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What blood glucose range is critical for transitioning to dextrose inclusion in fluid management?

    <p>250-300 mg/dL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In a patient presenting with severe hyperglycemia, what condition is typically absent in hyperglycemic hyperosmolar states?

    <p>Acidosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What volume of fluid replacement is typically required in the first 8-10 hours for severe dehydration?

    <p>4-6 L</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological condition can cause a further reduction in insulin requirement for non-ketotic patients?

    <p>Corrected hypovolemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What complication is associated with serum osmolality exceeding 330 mOsm/kg in hyperglycemic patients?

    <p>Convulsions and coma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which fluid therapy approach is advised when hypotension and oliguria are present?

    <p>Begin with 0.9% saline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Diabetes Mellitus Overview

    • Hyperglycemia is defined as elevated glucose levels in the blood, a key characteristic of diabetes mellitus.
    • Diagnostic criteria include fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance tests, and glycated hemoglobin levels.

    Classification of Diabetes Mellitus

    • Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus:

      • Autoimmune condition leading to destruction of pancreatic beta cells.
      • Most prevalent in children and young adults, typically diagnosed between ages 10-14.
      • Ketosis is common in untreated cases; requires exogenous insulin.
      • Genetic factors increase risk; higher incidence in Scandinavian countries.
      • Breastfeeding in infancy offers some protective benefit.
      • Rapid onset, with diabetic ketoacidosis often serving as initial presentation.
      • Approximately 5% may be classified as idiopathic type 1 diabetes (type 1B), without autoimmunity evidence.
    • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus:

      • Caused by non-immune pancreatic beta cell dysfunction and insulin resistance.
      • Historically more common in adults but increasingly seen in children and adolescents.
      • Genetic predisposition indicated by a 70% concordance rate in monozygotic twins.
      • Over 140 risk variants identified through genome-wide association studies.
      • Obesity, particularly visceral fat, is a significant environmental factor leading to insulin resistance.
    • Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY):

      • Monogenic diabetes that does not require insulin, with autosomal dominant inheritance.
      • Onset is typically before age 25; characterized by non-obesity and impaired insulin secretion.
      • MODY 3 is the most common form, often responsive to sulfonylureas but can progress to require insulin.
    • Secondary Diabetes:

      • Results from endocrine tumors or drugs affecting insulin sensitivity or secretion.
      • Excess hormones can impair glucose metabolism; symptoms resolve once hormone levels normalize.

    Symptoms & Clinical Signs

    • Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms:

      • Skin infections, generalized pruritus, and chronic candidal infections, particularly in women.
      • Acanthosis nigricans is indicative of insulin resistance.
    • Diagnostic Tests:

      • Fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL confirms diabetes; values 100-125 mg/dL indicate risk.
      • Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): 75g of glucose consumed; values define diabetes through a 0 and 120-minute intervals.
      • Hemoglobin A1c reflects average glucose levels over previous 8-12 weeks; normal is 4-6%.
      • Diabetic dyslipidemia in type 2 characterized by high triglycerides, low HDL, and small dense LDL particles.

    Other Important Considerations

    • Neuropathy may present as paresthesias related to hyperglycemia.
    • Level of consciousness can vary with hydration status and ketoacidosis, with risk of coma.
    • Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state occurs with serum osmolality exceeding 320-330 mOsm/L, leading to severe dehydration.
    • Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and medication adherence are essential for management and prevention of complications.

    Peripheral Vascular Disease

    • Characterized by diffuse blood flow with localized enhancement at aorta bifurcation and large vessels.
    • Clinical manifestations include ischemia in lower extremities and erectile dysfunction.
    • Diabetic patients experience gangrene of the feet at a 30-fold higher incidence than non-diabetics.
    • Causes of gangrene aside from peripheral vascular disease include peripheral neuropathy and secondary infections.
    • Ischemic gangrene presents with non-palpable pedal pulses; Doppler ultrasound can show reduced blood flow despite palpable pulses.
    • Essential prevention strategies include avoiding foot injuries and controlling tobacco use and hypertension.
    • Beta-blockers are relatively contraindicated due to their negative impact on peripheral circulation.
    • Statins are beneficial as adjunctive therapy upon detection of early ischemic signs and dyslipidemia.
    • Urgent medical care is advised for any diabetic foot ulcer.
    • Surgical options like angioplasty or bypass may improve peripheral blood flow in select patients.

    Skin and Mucous Membrane Complications

    • Bacterial skin infections are common in poorly controlled diabetic patients.
    • Candidal infections can cause erythema and edema in intertriginous areas and vulvovaginitis in women, especially with glucosuria.
    • Antifungal creams like miconazole or clotrimazole relieve vulvovaginitis but recurrence is likely unless glucosuria is managed.
    • Patients should inspect feet daily for any injuries, as sensory deficits can exacerbate issues.
    • Severe "burning" pain may be physically and emotionally disabling; nortriptyline and desipramine can offer pain relief.
    • Gabapentin and pregabalin are effective for diabetic neuropathy pain, but pregabalin is classified as a controlled substance.

    Isolated Peripheral Neuropathy

    • Involves single nerve (mono-neuropathy) or multiple nerves (mono-neuropathy multiplex) and typically has a sudden onset.
    • Commonly affects cranial or femoral nerves, leading to motor abnormalities like diplopia and weaknesses in extraocular movements.

    Chronic Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

    • Chronic complications can be classified into macrovascular, microvascular, and others.
    • Long-duration diabetes correlates with serious complications like chronic kidney disease, blindness, and amputations.
    • Up to 40% of type 1 diabetes patients develop end-stage chronic kidney disease vs. less than 20% in type 2.
    • Diabetic retinopathy is prevalent in both types, higher in type 1 patients (25% after 15 years).
    • Cigarette smoking significantly increases the risk of both microvascular and macrovascular complications.

    Ocular Complications

    • Diabetic cataracts develop prematurely and are related to chronic hyperglycemia duration and severity.
    • ACE inhibitors or ARBs can slow progression to end-stage renal disease in patients with albuminuria but require monitoring for hyperkalemia.

    Diabetic Neuropathy

    • Affects up to 50% of diabetic patients; peripheral neuropathy is the most common form.
    • Distal symmetric polyneuropathy shows loss of function in a "stocking-glove" pattern, with initial sensory loss occurring bilaterally.

    Genitourinary System Complications

    • Incomplete bladder emptying may occur; page treatment options include bethanechol and catheter decompression.
    • Erectile dysfunction can stem from neurologic, psychological, or vascular issues.
    • PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil) are effective for erectile dysfunction but contraindicated with nitrates.

    Orthostatic Hypotension

    • Symptoms can be alleviated with lifestyle adjustments like wearing fitted stockings and rising slowly.
    • Fludrocortisone and alpha-agonist midodrine may be appropriate for treatment when lifestyle changes are insufficient.

    Cardiovascular Complications

    • Microvascular issues can lead to diabetic cardiomyopathy.
    • The majority of heart disease in diabetes is attributed to coronary atherosclerosis, a macrovascular complication.

    Tissue Anoxia and Acidosis

    • Tissue anoxia may occur due to reduced oxygen dissociation from hemoglobin when acidosis is reversed, represented by a leftward shift in the oxygen dissociation curve.
    • Rapidly correcting cerebral acidosis can lead to lowered cerebrospinal fluid pH, complicating patient status.

    Bicarbonate Administration in DKA

    • Bicarbonate is recommended only for severe acidosis (arterial pH ≤ 7.0), accompanied by careful monitoring.
    • Sodium bicarbonate (1 ampule = 44 mEq/50 mL) is to be added to 1 L of 0.45% saline with 20 mEq KCl, infused over 2 hours.
    • Repeated infusions can occur until pH reaches 7.1, avoiding administration if pH is 7.1 or higher to prevent rebound metabolic alkalosis.

    Risks of Metabolic Alkalosis

    • Alkalosis shifts potassium from serum into cells, which may result in fatal cardiac arrhythmias.

    Treatment of Associated Infections

    • Antibiotics are necessary, especially for severe conditions like cholecystitis and pyelonephritis.

    Transition to Subcutaneous Insulin

    • After DKA is controlled and the patient is alert and able to eat, initiate subcutaneous insulin therapy.
    • Calculate the initial insulin doses based on the amount used in the last 8 hours; split the total daily dose equally between long-acting and short-acting insulin.

    Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS) Essentials

    • Diagnosis requires hyperglycemia > 600 mg/dL. Ketoacidemia results from insulin deficiency.
    • Insulin lack leads to elevated growth hormone, catecholamines, and glucagon, enhancing lipolysis and hepatic ketogenesis.
    • Nitroprusside tests detect acetoacetic acid but fail to identify beta hydroxybutyric acid, a major contributor to acidosis.
    • Bedside dipstick tests can produce false negatives if beta-hydroxybutyrate predominates.

    Diagnostic Indicators

    • Nonspecific elevations in serum amylase and lipase occur in 16-25% of DKA cases; imaging may be necessary for suspected pancreatitis.
    • Leukocytosis can reach 25,000/mcl, with fever indicating potential infection—usually hypothermic in uninfected DKA.

    Treatment Approaches for DKA

    • Classify DKA severity based on pH levels:
      • Mild (pH 7.25-7.30)
      • Moderate (pH 7.0-7.24)
      • Severe (pH < 7.0) requiring ICU admission.
    • Goals of treatment: restore plasma volume and tissue perfusion, normalize blood glucose and osmolality, correct acidosis, replenish electrolytes, and address triggers of DKA.

    Insulin Replacement Therapy

    • Administer regular insulin via IV after fluid replacement, starting with a loading dose of 0.1 unit/kg followed by continuous infusion at 0.1 unit/kg/h.
    • Insulin therapy reduces acidosis and hyperosmolality by promoting glucose utilization and inhibiting hepatic glucose production.

    Potassium Management

    • DKA leads to substantial potassium loss; serum levels may appear normal or elevated because of acid-base imbalances.
    • As acidosis corrects, potassium shifts intracellularly, possibly leading to hypokalemia; replacement is critical, typically with potassium chloride at 10-30 mEq/h.
    • Delay insulin therapy if serum potassium < 3.5 mEq/L until levels are corrected.

    Sodium Bicarbonate Use

    • Use of sodium bicarbonate in DKA treatment is controversial due to potential rapid shifts in potassium and risks of hypokalemia from overcorrection.

    Prognosis and Complications

    • Severe dehydration in HHS can lead to myocardial infarction, stroke, pulmonary embolism, and mesenteric vein thrombosis.
    • Fluid replacement is critical in preventing these severe outcomes, with low-dose heparin considered for prophylaxis.
    • Mortality from HHS exceeds that of DKA, often due to older age, underlying illnesses, and delays in recognition and treatment.

    Long-term Management

    • Post-stabilization, review long-term diabetes management; insulin therapy may be needed temporarily until endogenous insulin production improves.
    • Patient education regarding glucose monitoring and hydration is essential.
    • Symptoms like lethargy and confusion appear as serum osmolality exceeds 310 mOsm/kg, with severe cases risking convulsions and coma at > 330 mOsm/kg.

    Laboratory Findings in HHS

    • Severe hyperglycemia typically ranges from 800 mg/dL to 2400 mg/dL.
    • As dehydration progresses, sodium may exceed 140 mEq/L, leading to elevated serum osmolality (330-440 mOsm/kg).
    • Ketosis and acidosis are generally absent or mild, with prerenal azotemia indicated by elevated serum urea.

    Fluid Replacement Protocol

    • Fluid replacement is crucial; deficits can reach 6-10 L.
    • Initiate therapy based on hypotension with 0.9% saline; otherwise, 0.45% saline is preferable for hyperosmolar patients.
    • Administer 4-6 L of fluids within the first 8-10 hours, aiming to restore urinary output above 50 mL/h.
    • Incorporate 5% dextrose once blood glucose reaches 250 mg/dL, adjusting the infusion rate to maintain levels between 250-300 mg/dL to mitigate cerebral edema.

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    Explore the fundamental aspects of diabetes mellitus, including its definition, diagnostic criteria, and classification into Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. This quiz covers essential information about the autoimmune nature of Type 1 diabetes, risk factors, and the pathophysiology of Type 2 diabetes. Test your knowledge on these critical health topics.

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