Nokea
Justine is admitted to the pediatric unit due to the occurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis signaling a new diagnosis of diabetes. The diabetes team explores the cause of the episode and take steps to prevent a recurrence. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) results from an excessive accumulation of which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body. In the absence of sufficient insulin, the body is unable to use glucose for energy, leading to the breakdown of fats for fuel. This results in the excessive production of ketone bodies, specifically acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate. As the ketone bodies accumulate in the blood, they lower the blood pH, leading to acidosis. This is what causes the characteristic symptoms of DKA, such as fruity breath, deep rapid breathing, and abdominal pain. Therefore, the excessive accumulation of ketone bodies from fat metabolism is the primary cause of diabetic ketoacidosis.