Emergency Medicine Myths: Cerebral Edema in Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Intravenous Fluids

Recognizing Complications in Youth With Diabetes Admitted With Diabetic Ketoacidosis Versus Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State

INTRODUCTION

We compare in-hospital complications in youth with isolated diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) to youth with hyperosmolarity.

METHOD

We reviewed medical records of youth (1-20 years) admitted over two years with DKA, hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), and hyperosmolar DKA. We evaluated outcomes, including hospital length of stay, altered mental status (AMS), and acute kidney injury (AKI).

RESULTS

Of 369 admissions, 334 had isolated DKA, 32 had hyperosmolar DKA, and three had isolated HHS. Hyperosmolar youth had longer length of stay, larger initial fluid boluses, more frequent pediatric intensive care unit admissions, and increased risk of AKI and AMS. The odds of AKI were positively associated with serum osmolality and negatively associated with new-onset diabetes mellitus (DM) compared with established DM.

CONCLUSIONS

In youth with DM, hyperosmolarity increases acute complications compared with isolated DKA. Larger-scale studies are needed to identify ways to prevent acute complications in youth experiencing hyperglycemic emergencies.

Retrospective Outcomes Comparison by Treatment Location for Pediatric Mild and Moderate Diabetic Ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVES

Pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is often treated in a PICU, but nonsevere DKA may not necessitate PICU admission. At our institution, nonsevere DKA was treated on the floor until policy change shifted care to the PICU. We describe outcomes in pediatric mild to moderate DKA by treatment location.

METHODS

Patients aged 2 to 21 with mild to moderate DKA (pH <7.3 but >7.1), treated on the floor from January 1, 2018 to July 31, 2020 and PICU from August 1, 2020 to October 1, 2022 were included. We performed a single-center, retrospective cohort study; primary outcome was DKA duration (from emergency department diagnosis to resolution), secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, and complication rates, based on treatment location.

RESULTS

Seventy nine floor and 65 PICU encounters for mild to moderate pediatric DKA were analyzed. There were no differences in demographics, initial pH, or bicarbonate; PICU patients had more acute kidney injury on admission. Floor patients had a shorter DKA duration (10 hours [interquartile range 7-13] vs 11 hours [9-15]; P = .04), and a shorter median length of stay (median 43.5 hours [interquartile range 31-62] vs 49 hours [32-100]; P < .01). No patients had clinical signs of cerebral edema; other complications occurred at similar rates. PICU patients received significantly more intravenous electrolyte boluses, but there were no differences in dysrhythmia or electrolyte abnormalities on final serum chemistry.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study did not find a clear benefit to admitting patients with mild to moderate DKA to the PICU instead of the hospital floor. Our findings suggest that some children with nonsevere DKA may be treated safely in a non-PICU setting.

Correlation between Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Cerebral Edema in Children with Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a common onset modality of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), can lead, in rare instances, to the development of cerebral edema, which is the leading cause of mortality in T1DM. Aside from the identification of several demographic and clinical risk factors for cerebral edema, attention has also been drawn to the possible link between systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation. This single-center retrospective study of 98 children with severe DKA aimed to investigate the possible relationship between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio NLR) levels and the presence of cerebral edema. Patients were classified into three groups: alert (n = 28), subclinical cerebral edema (n = 59), and overt cerebral edema (n = 11). Lower blood pH and elevated NLR and blood urea were correlated with the presence of cerebral edema (p < 0.001). After a multivariable risk adjustment for possible confounding factors, such as age, pH, corrected sodium, and BUN, the NLR remained positively associated with cerebral edema (p = 0.045). As such, NLR may be an additional instrument to help practitioners target patients with a higher risk of severe cerebral edema. These patients would benefit from more rigorous neurologic surveillance, enabling the prompt identification of early signs of cerebral edema.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children and Adolescents; Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pitfalls

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) represents an acute, severe complication of relative insulin deficiency and a common presentation of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) primarily and, occasionally, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in children and adolescents. It is characterized by the biochemical triad of hyperglycaemia, ketonaemia and/or ketonuria, and acidaemia. Clinical symptoms include dehydration, tachypnoea, gastrointestinal symptoms, and reduced level of consciousness, precipitated by a variably long period of polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss. The present review aims to summarize potential pitfalls in the diagnosis and management of DKA. A literature review was conducted using the Pubmed/Medline and Scopus databases including articles published from 2000 onwards. Diagnostic challenges include differentiating between T1DM and T2DM, between DKA and hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS), and between DKA and alternative diagnoses presenting with overlapping symptoms, such as pneumonia, asthma exacerbation, urinary tract infection, gastroenteritis, acute abdomen, and central nervous system infection. The mainstays of DKA management include careful fluid resuscitation, timely intravenous insulin administration, restoration of shifting electrolyte disorders and addressing underlying precipitating factors. However, evidence suggests that optimal treatment remains a therapeutic challenge. Accurate and rapid diagnosis, prompt intervention, and meticulous monitoring are of major importance to break the vicious cycle of life-threatening events and prevent severe complications during this potentially fatal medical emergency.

Systematically Treating the Extra Sweet Pediatric Patient, Without Inadvertently Giving Them a Big Head

Treating pediatric patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) during transport can be complex and multifactorial. Cerebral edema is a frequent occurrence in pediatric patients with DKA; however, the signs often occur in a subtle manner. Overzealous correction of their blood glucose may result in cerebral edema as well as a cascade of electrolyte abnormalities. Pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus are prone to developing DKA. Serious complications from DKA in pediatrics often present acutely and rapidly.

Utility of head CT scan in treatment decisions for suspected cerebral edema in children with DKA

OBJECTIVES

Cerebral edema (CE) remains one of the most feared complications of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with severe morbidity and mortality. The use of computerized tomography (CT) scan in the setting of suspected cerebral edema in DKA has been minimally studied. The objective of our study was to evaluate the utility of CT scans in children with suspected cerebral edema, and secondarily to analyze the various patient characteristics of those with and without cerebral edema.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of all the children with DKA secondary to T1DM admitted to our tertiary PICU in order to obtain demographic data, laboratory results, and their treatment course. Differences between the groups of suspected CE and no suspected CE were compared using linear and logistic regression for continuous and binary variables respectively.

RESULTS

We identified 251 patients with DKA, 12 of which had suspected CE; 67% (8/12) of those patients received head CT and 87.5% (7/8) of them were read as normal. On the other hand, 33% (4/12) did not receive CT scan of head, and yet three of the four patients were treated for CE.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cohort of patients, CT results did not influence CE treatment or lack thereof; most patients with suspected CE were treated with or without head CT findings of CE, indicating that imaging has very little utility in our cohort of patients. In some cases, the use of head CT delayed the onset of treatment for CE.

Epidemiologic Characteristics of Children with Diabetic Ketoacidosis Treated in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in a 10-Year-Period: Single Centre Experience in Croatia

Background and Objectives: The incidence of severe and moderate forms of DKA as the initial presentation of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is increasing, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This poses a higher risk of developing cerebral edema as a complication of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), as well as morbidity and mortality rates. The aim of this study was to determine the trend and clinical features of children treated in the last 10 years in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) due to the development of DKA. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed in the PICU, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, in Croatia. All children diagnosed with DKA from 2011-2020 were included in this study. Data were received from hospital medical documentation and patient paper history. The number of new cases and severity of DKA were identified and classified using recent International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) guidelines. Results: In this investigation period, 194 children with newly diagnosed T1D were admitted to our hospital: 58 of them were treated in the PICU due to DKA; 48 had newly diagnosed T1D (48/58); and ten previously diagnosed T1D (10/58). DKA as the initial presentation of T1D was diagnosed in 24.7% (48/194). Moderate or severe dehydration was present in 76% of the children at hospital admission. Polyuria, polydipsia, and Kussmaul breathing were the most common signs. Three patients (5.2%) developed cerebral edema, of whom one died. Conclusions: During the investigation period a rising trend in T1D was noted, especially in 2020. About one quarter of children with T1D presented with DKA at initial diagnosis in western Croatia, most of them with a severe form. Good education of the general population, along with the patients and families of children with diabetes, is crucial to prevent the development of DKA and thus reduce severe complications.

Application of bench studies at the bedside to improve outcomes in the management of severe diabetic ketoacidosis in children-a narrative review

OBJECTIVE

In this review, we address a few key issues and the challenges faced in the management of severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children, highlighting the existing standard of care, supported by evidence and bench studies.

BACKGROUND

The classic triad of DKA namely hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis and ketonemia warrants immediate attention with fluids and insulin. Correction of dehydration in DKA is of utmost priority and the calculation of fluid volume and choice of fluid have remained a matter of debate. Insulin therapy, to halt the ketone production, in DKA has undergone wide variations in dose and preparation since its discovery. Although the mortality due to severe DKA has remarkably decreased, complications like cerebral edema and acute kidney injury (AKI) continue to haunt the intensivists and endocrinologists on a few occasions.

METHODS

We have selected a few important questions in the management of severe DKA in children, addressing the challenges, reviewing the studies, guidelines and bedside practices with evidence in this narrative review.

CONCLUSIONS

The focus of management should be to understand and normalise the deranged physiology rather than trying to get normal laboratory reports. This needs careful understanding of the pathogenesis and deriving conclusion from bench studies. With newer studies and evidence, guidelines are revised every few years. There is a trend towards more conservative therapy, with continuous and advanced monitoring. Switching to subcutaneous insulin and oral hydration is done as early as possible with clinical monitoring and resolution of DKA. Management of severe DKA in children can vary from simple fluid titration and insulin infusion in mild cases to a scenario with multiorgan dysfunction requiring intensive monitoring and advanced organ support. Individualisation of therapy to suit the needs with the available evidence and expertise is extremely essential.

A Retrospective Analysis of Children and Adolescents With Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Intensive Care Unıt: Is It Significant that the Blood Ketone Level Becomes Negative in Diabetic Ketoacidosis?

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most common cause of acute morbidity and mortality in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Because DKA management is associated with complications, endocrine communities have published guidelines and attempted to set standards for DKA diagnosis and management worldwide. In this study, for the patients followed up in the intensive care unit who have been treated according to DKA protocols, clinical and laboratory characteristics, differences between new and old diagnosed patients, and results of treatment were evaluated.

Methods: The records of 67 patients hospitalized in the pediatric intensive care unit for the past two years were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were grouped as newly diagnosed and old diagnosed diabetics.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 8.66 ± 5.0 years (3 months to 17.9 years) and 39 (58.2%) were male. Forty-five patients (67.1%) presented with mild DKA and 22 (33.9%) with severe DKA. Fourteen (63.6%) of the severe DKA cases were newly diagnosed with T1DM. Six patients had hyponatremia (corrected serum Na level <135 mmol/L) and five had hypernatremia (serum Na level >145 mmol/L). Only one of the hyponatremic patients had severe acidosis, while four of the hypernatremic patients had severe acidosis. At the 14th hour, blood glucose levels were below 200 mg/dl, blood ketones became negative in 5.8 hours, and at 9.1 hours, blood pH and/or HCO₃ levels were normalized, recovery criteria were completed, and subcutaneous (SC) insulin injection was started. Of the patients, 38 (56.7) were newly diagnosed with T1DM. The mean age of newly diagnosed T1DM patients was smaller (7.40 ± 4.96) than those with old diagnosis, respiratory rates (RRs) were higher and pCO₂ levels were lower on admission. Blood glucose, blood ketone negativity, acidosis, and Glasgow coma score (GCS) scores of the newly diagnosed T1DM patients improved later than the previous diagnoses. Only one patient under two years of age with a pH of 6.89 was given HCO₃. None of the patients had symptomatic brain edema and death.

Conclusions: As a result, DKA is an acute and serious complication of diabetes, whose results are promising when managed only with minimal individual changes according to guidelines. Bicarbonate administration is not needed except in patients with very severe acidosis. Bedside blood ketone monitoring seems to be important because it allows for early enteral feeding.

Frequency and severity of ketoacidosis at diagnosis among childhood type 1 diabetes in Khartoum state, Sudan

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life threatening acute complication of Type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study aimed to determine the frequency and clinical characteristics of pediatric DKA at diagnosis of new-onset T1DM in Khartoum during 2000-2017 period.

METHODS

The study was retrospective and involved review of medical files of children (<15 years) with T1DM in the city hospitals and diabetes centers.

RESULTS

The overall frequency of DKA among T1DM children at onset of disease diagnosis was 17.6% (173/982). The episodes of DKA increased from 26% in first 6- year period (2000-2005) to 46.3% in the last 6-year period (2011-2012; p<0.001). No significant difference in the frequency of DKA was observed according to gender (p=0.9) and age (p=0.24). Compared to other age groups, the severity of DKA (pH<7.1) was higher in pre-school children (p<0.01). Approximately, 5% of patients were complicated with cerebral edema with a mortality rate of 1.7%.

CONCLUSION

The DKA frequency at diagnosis of childhood T1DM in Khartoum was lower than previous reports. In addition, the severity of DKA was high among pre-school age children with a relatively high mortality rate when compared to the global rate.

Fluid Therapy For Pediatric Patients With Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Current Perspectives

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a preventable life-threatening complication of type 1 diabetes. Fluids form a crucial component of DKA therapy, goals being the restoration of intravascular, interstitial and intracellular compartments. Hydration reduces hyperglycemia by decreased counter-regulatory hormones, enhanced renal glucose clearance and augmented insulin sensitivity. However, for the last several decades, fluids in DKA have been subject of intense debate owing to their possible role in causation of cerebral edema (CE). Rehydration protocols have been modified to prevent major osmotic shifts, correct electrolyte imbalances and avoid cerebral or pulmonary edema. In DKA, a conservative deficit assumption ranging from 6.5% to 8.5% is preferred. Normal saline (0.9%) has been the traditional fluid of choice, for both, volume resuscitation and deficit replacement in DKA. However, the risk of AKI with its liberal chloride content remains a contentious issue. On the other hand, balanced crystalloids with restricted chloride content need more exploration in children with DKA, both with respect to DKA resolution and AKI. Although fluids are an integral part of DKA management, a fine balance is needed to avoid under-hydration or over-hydration during DKA management. In this narrative review, we discuss the current perspectives on fluids in pediatric DKA.