
Biochemically, DKA is defined as an increase in the serum ketone concentration > 5 mEq/L, a blood glucose level > 250 mg/dL (although it is usually much higher), and a blood (usually arterial) pH < 7.3. Ketonemia and ketonuria are characteristic, as is a serum bicarbonate level ≤ 18 mEq/L or less (< 5 mEq/L is indicative of severe DKA). These biochemical changes are frequently associated with increased anion gap, increased serum osmolarity, and increased serum uric acid.
For more on the background of DKA, read here.
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Cite this: Romesh Khardori. Quiz: What Do You Know About Diabetic Ketoacidosis? - Medscape - Dec 03, 2015.
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