About The Webinar
When diabetes mellitus is uncontrolled, insulin deficiency leads to production of ketone bodies which subsequently lead to metabolic acidosis, dehydration and ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA can be precipitated by factors such as insufficient insulin therapy, bacterial infections, co-morbidities and drugs that antagonise the action of insulin. Dehydration associated with DKA can be severe and results from the osmotic diuresis which occurs secondary to glycosuria and ketonuria; vomiting often leads to further fluid losses. A marked metabolic acidosis is often present to the production of ketone bodies. DKA may be life threatening so prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment is usually required. Treatment objectives include correcting dehydration and acidosis and restoring euglycaemia; it is also important to identify and remove any underlying causes.
In this webinar we will discuss the diagnostic approach to the patient with DKA and focus on the emergency management and monitoring of these critical patients.