Clinical and socio-demographic factors associated with diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalization in adults with Type 1 diabetes

Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Northern Jordan: Seasonal Morbidity and Characteristics of Patients

Purpose

This study aimed to characterize adult patients admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in northern Jordan.

Methods

The study examined medical records of patients diagnosed with DKA from January 2015 to April 2018. Variables analyzed included diabetes type, precipitating illness, admission month, hospital length of stay, and biochemical markers.

Results

Out of 232 admissions with DKA, 70% were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and 56% were females. 12% of admissions had a new diagnosis of diabetes, of which 51% had type 2 diabetes. Sepsis (48%), Non-adherence (26%), and diabetic foot infections (18%) were the most encountered precipitating factors for DKA in T1DM. As for T2DM, sepsis (52%), acute coronary syndrome (12%), and pancreatitis (8%) were the most precipitating factors for DKA. High urea levels, high creatinine levels, low phosphorous levels, low hemoglobin levels, and high platelet counts were associated with a longer hospital stay for type 1 diabetes. For type 2 diabetes, low pH on admission, old age, and high Hb A1c within 6 months of admission were factors associated with a prolonged hospital stay. The study found a significant peak of admissions for DKA in both type 1 and type 2 patients in the winter and spring months (Pearson P-value= 0.0013).

Conclusion

The results of the present study highlight the seasonal variation in the frequency of DKA hospitalizations. It also highlights sepsis as the most frequent precipitating factor of DKA in both type 1 and type 2 DM patients.

Diabetic gastroparesis: clinical features, diagnosis and management

Diabetic gastroparesis carries a heavy burden on people with diabetes and the healthcare system. It remains underdiagnosed and represents challenges to treat. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of diabetic gastroparesis. The disorder is characterized by delayed gastric emptying without evidence of mechanical gastric outflow obstruction. It presents with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, early satiety, postprandial fullness, upper abdominal discomfort and or bloating. As the prevalence of diabetes has been growing over the last few decades, we would expect an increased incidence of delayed gastric emptying in poorly controlled diabetes and perhaps in line with the increasing use of medications that act on the GI tract such as incretin-based therapy. The disease results from multiple reversible and irreversible mechanisms. Diagnosing diabetic gastroparesis requires careful history, examination and investigations to exclude other disorders that could mimic its clinical presentation. Treatment involves a wide variety of options starting with optimization of glycaemic control, stopping any offending medications and lifestyle modifications followed by the introduction of medical therapeutics such as prokinetics. Then, surgical interventions are considered in refractory cases.

Clinical Characterization of Data-Driven Diabetes Clusters of Pediatric Type 2 Diabetes

Background

Pediatric Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is highly heterogeneous. Previous reports on adult-onset diabetes demonstrated the existence of diabetes clusters. Therefore, we set out to identify unique diabetes subgroups with distinct characteristics among youth with T2D using commonly available demographic, clinical, and biochemical data.

Methods

We performed data-driven cluster analysis (K-prototypes clustering) to characterize diabetes subtypes in pediatrics using a dataset with 722 children and adolescents with autoantibody-negative T2D. The six variables included in our analysis were sex, race/ethnicity, age, BMI Z-score and hemoglobin A1c at the time of diagnosis, and non-HDL cholesterol within first year of diagnosis.

Results

We identified five distinct clusters of pediatric T2D, with different features, treatment regimens and risk of diabetes complications: Cluster 1 was characterized by higher A1c; Cluster 2, by higher non-HDL; Cluster 3, by lower age at diagnosis and lower A1c; Cluster 4, by lower BMI and higher A1c; and Cluster 5, by lower A1c and higher age. Youth in Cluster 1 had the highest rate of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (p = 0.0001) and were most prescribed metformin (p = 0.06). Those in Cluster 2 were most prone to polycystic ovarian syndrome (p = 0.001). Younger individuals with lowest family history of diabetes were least frequently diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis (p = 0.001) and microalbuminuria (p = 0.06). Low-BMI individuals with higher A1c had the lowest prevalence of acanthosis nigricans (p = 0.0003) and hypertension (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Utilizing clinical measures gathered at the time of diabetes diagnosis can be used to identify subgroups of pediatric T2D with prognostic value. Consequently, this advancement contributes to the progression and wider implementation of precision medicine in diabetes management.

Increased risk of death following recurrent ketoacidosis admissions: a Brazilian cohort study of young adults with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Recurrent DKA (rDKA) remains an acute type 1 diabetes complication even in post-insulin era. This study aimed to analyze the predictors and effects of rDKA on the mortality of patients with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

Patients hospitalized (n = 231) wih diabetic ketoacidosis (between 2007 and 2018) were included. Laboratorial and clinical variables were collected. Mortality curves were compared in four groups: diabetic ketoacidosis as a new-onset type 1 diabetes (group A), single diabetic ketoacidosis episode after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (group B), 2-5 diabetic ketoacidosis events (group C), and > 5 diabetic ketoacidosis events during follow-up period (group D).

RESULTS

During the follow-up period (approximately 1823 days), the mortality rate was 16.02% (37/231). The median age at death was 38.7 years. In the survival curve analysis, at 1926 days (5 years), the probabilities of death were indicated by ratios of 7.78%, 4.58%, 24.40%, and 26.63% in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. One diabetic ketoacidosis episode compared with ≥ 2 events had a relative risk of 4.49 (p = 0.004) of death and > 5 events had 5.81 (p = 0.04). Neuropathy (RR 10.04; p < 0.001), retinopathy (relative risk 7.94; p < 0.01), nephropathy (RR 7.10; p < 0.001), mood disorders (RR 3.57; p = 0.002), antidepressant use (RR 3.09; p = 0.004), and statin use (RR 2.81; p = 0.0024) increased the risk of death.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with type 1 diabetes with > 2 diabetic ketoacidosis episodes have four times greater risk of death in 5 years. Microangiopathies, mood disorders, and use of antidepressants and statins were important risk factors for short-term mortality.

Exploring HbA1c variation between Australian diabetes centres: The impact of centre-level and patient-level factors

Background

Increasing global diabetes incidence has profound implications for health systems and for people living with diabetes. Guidelines have established clinical targets but there may be variation in clinical outcomes including HbA1c, based on location and practice size. Investigating this variation may help identify factors amenable to systemic improvement interventions. The aims of this study were to identify centre-specific and patient-specific factors associated with variation in HbA1c levels and to determine how these associations contribute to variation in performance across diabetes centres.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analysed data for 5,872 people with type 1 (n = 1,729) or type 2 (n = 4,143) diabetes mellitus collected through the Australian National Diabetes Audit (ANDA). A linear mixed-effects model examined centre-level and patient-level factors associated with variation in HbA1c levels.

Results

Mean age was: 43±17 years (type 1), 64±13 (type 2); median disease duration: 18 years (10,29) (type 1), 12 years (6,20) (type 2); female: 52% (type 1), 45% (type 2). For people with type 1 diabetes, volume of patients was associated with increases in HbA1c (p = 0.019). For people with type 2 diabetes, type of centre was associated with reduction in HbA1c (p <0.001), but location and patient volume were not. Associated patient-level factors associated with increases in HbA1c included past hyperglycaemic emergencies (type 1 and type 2, p<0.001) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status (type 2, p<0.001). Being a non-smoker was associated with reductions in HbA1c (type 1 and type 2, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Centre-level and patient-level factors were associated with variation in HbA1c, but patient-level factors had greater impact. Interventions targeting patient-level factors conducted at a centre level including sick-day management, smoking cessation programs and culturally appropriate diabetes education for and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples may be more important for improving glycaemic control than targeting factors related to the Centre itself.

Clinical, psychological and demographic factors in a contemporary adult cohort with diabetic ketoacidosis and type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening but often preventable acute complication of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Understanding clinical and psychosocial characteristics of people with DKA, particularly those with multiple presentations, may aid the development of prevention strategies.

AIMS

To describe clinical, psychological and demographic factors in adults with DKA and particularly those factors associated with recurrent admissions.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of all admissions with DKA in people with T1D over a 4-year period from 1 November 2013 to 31 October 2017 at a metropolitan tertiary hospital in Australia. Potential cases were identified by International Classification of Diseases-10th Revision coding data. Data were then manually extracted by clinicians from the electronic medical record.

RESULTS

There were 154 clinician-adjudicated admissions for DKA among 128 people with T1D. Of these, 16 (13%) had multiple DKA admissions. Forty-one (32%) had a history of depression. The most common factors contributing to presentation included insulin omission (54%), infection (31%), alcohol excess (26%) and new diabetes diagnosis (16%). Compared to people with single admissions, those with recurrent DKA were more likely to smoke (69% vs 27%, P = 0.003), be unemployed (31% vs 11%, P = 0.04) and use illicit substances (44% vs 17%, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high prevalence of psychiatric illness, illicit substance use and social disadvantage among people admitted with DKA, particularly those with recurrent presentations. Insulin omission, often due to inappropriate sick day management, was the most common reason for DKA occurrence. Innovative multidisciplinary models of care are required to address these challenges.

Predictors and outcomes of recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis in Israeli adults

AIMS

To identify risk factors for recurrent episodes of DKA that may allow the development of an effective prevention strategies.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of admissions for DKA in adult patients between 2004, and 2017 in a tertiary hospital. The clinical characteristics and outcomes of DKA of patients were stratified into an isolated episode of DKA (group 1) and recurrent episodes (group 2).

RESULTS

385 patients were included in the study, 281 had a single admission of DKA, and 104 had recurrent admissions. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in demographic or clinical variables. Patients in the recurrent DKA group had a younger age at diabetes diagnosis, 32.1 ± 17.08 vs. 36.13 ± 19.52 (p = 0.05). Patients with A1C greater than 9.0% were associated with recurrent DKA in cox regression analysis (HR 2.023; 95% Cl 1.112-3.679; p = 0.021). Recurrent DKA was a significant predictor of one-year mortality in cox regression analysis (HR 0.172; 95% CI 0.04-0.742; p = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

High A1C levels, which account for poorly controlled diabetes, was identified as the strongest predictor of recurrent DKA. This patient population warrants particular attention and the development of intervention strategies in further studies.

Rising Rates and Widening Socioeconomic Disparities in Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Type 1 Diabetes in Scotland: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

Whether advances in the management of type 1 diabetes are reducing rates of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is unclear. We investigated time trends in DKA rates in a national cohort of individuals with type 1 diabetes monitored for 14 years, overall and by socioeconomic characteristics.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

All individuals in Scotland with type 1 diabetes who were alive and at least 1 year old between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2018 were identified using the national register (N = 37,939). DKA deaths and hospital admissions were obtained through linkage to Scottish national death and morbidity records. Bayesian regression was used to test for DKA time trends and association with risk markers, including socioeconomic deprivation.

RESULTS

There were 30,427 DKA admissions and 472 DKA deaths observed over 393,223 person-years at risk. DKA event rates increased over the study period (incidence rate ratio [IRR] per year 1.058 [95% credibility interval 1.054-1.061]). Males had lower rates than females (IRR male-to-female 0.814 [0.776-0.855]). DKA incidence rose in all age-groups other than 10- to 19-year-olds, in whom rates were the highest, but fell over the study. There was a large socioeconomic differential (IRR least-to-most deprived quintile 0.446 [0.406-0.490]), which increased during follow-up. Insulin pump use or completion of structured education were associated with lower DKA rates, and antidepressant and methadone prescription were associated with higher DKA rates.

CONCLUSIONS

DKA incidence has risen since 2004, except in 10- to 19-year-olds. Of particular concern are the strong and widening socioeconomic disparities in DKA outcomes. Efforts to prevent DKA, especially in vulnerable groups, require strengthening.

Profile of diabetic ketoacidosis at the National Diabetes and Endocrine Center in Tripoli, Libya, 2015

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a major acute metabolic complication of type I diabetes mellitus but may occur in type II diabetes during severe stressful conditions.

AIM

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical profile of DKA patients admitted to the National Diabetes and Endocrine Center in Tripoli, Libya, during 2015.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The profiles of 490 patients admitted with DKA were retrospectively studied. All the data was collected from the patient files.

RESULTS

Most of the patients (91.6%) were admitted to the intensive care unit. The mean age was 35.9 years. DKA was more common among young males with type I diabetes. The average duration of diabetes disease of the patient when admitted with DKA was 16.8 ± 8.2 years. The frequencies of patients admitted with mild, moderate or severe diabetic ketoacidosis were 49.8%, 32.7% and 17.8%, respectively. The most frequent causes of admission were insulin omission (21.8%), infection (20.2%), and wrong dose (11%). The cause of DKA was not known for 29.8% of the patients. DKA was more common among young males, and the rate increased with longer duration of the condition. Most of the patients (93.1%) were discharged in good health, and mortality was 0.6%.

CONCLUSION

Males and patients with a long duration of diabetes disease are more prone to develop DKA. The common causes of DKA were unknown in our study; however, admission of individuals with less serious illness, insulin omission, and infection may contribute to the development of DKA.

Improved transition to adult care in youth with type 1 diabetes: a pragmatic clinical trial

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Youth with type 1 diabetes are at high risk for loss to follow-up during the transition from paediatric to adult diabetes care. Our aim was to assess the effect of a communication technology enhanced transition coordinator intervention compared with usual care on clinic attendance among transitioning youth with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

In this open label, pragmatic clinical trial of youth with type 1 diabetes, aged 17-18 years, transitioning from paediatric to adult diabetes care, the intervention group received support from a transition coordinator who used communication technology and the control group received usual care. The primary outcome was the proportion of individuals that did not attend at least one routine clinic visit in adult diabetes care within 1 year after transfer. Secondary outcomes included diabetes-related clinical outcomes and quality of life measures.

RESULTS

There were no baseline differences in age, sex, HbA_1c and number of follow-up visits, emergency department visits and diabetic ketoacidosis admissions in the 1 year prior to transition between the usual care (n = 101) and intervention (n = 102) groups. In the year following transfer, 47.1% in the usual care group vs 11.9% in the intervention group did not attend any outpatient diabetes appointments (p < 0.01). There were no differences in glycaemic control or diabetic ketoacidosis post transfer.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our intervention was successful in improving clinic attendance among transitioning youth with type 1 diabetes. Importantly, this programme used simple, readily accessible communication technologies, which increases the sustainability and transferability of this strategy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

isrctn.org ISRCTN13459962.

Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Adults: A Narrative Review

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most common hyperglycemic emergency and causes the greatest risk for death in patients with diabetes mellitus. DKA more commonly occurs among those with type 1 diabetes, yet almost a third of the cases occur among those with type 2 diabetes. Although mortality rates from DKA have declined to low levels in general, it continues to be high in many developing countries. DKA is characterized by hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis and ketosis. Proper management of DKA requires hospitalization for aggressive intravenous fluids, insulin therapy, electrolyte replacement as well as identification and treatment of the underlying precipitating event along with frequent monitoring of patient's clinical and laboratory states. The most common precipitating causes for DKA include infections, new diagnosis of diabetes and nonadherence to insulin therapy. Clinicians should be aware of the occurrence of DKA in patients prescribed sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. Discharge plans should include appropriate choice and dosing of insulin regimens and interventions to prevent recurrence of DKA. Future episodes of DKA can be reduced through patient education programs focusing on adherence to insulin and self-care guidelines during illness and improved access to medical providers. New approaches such as extended availability of phone services, use of telemedicine and utilization of public campaigns can provide further support for the prevention of DKA.

ENDOCRINOLOGY IN THE TIME OF COVID-19: Remodelling diabetes services and emerging innovation

The COVID-19 pandemic is a major international emergency leading to unprecedented medical, economic and societal challenges. Countries around the globe are facing challenges with diabetes care and are similarly adapting care delivery, with local cultural nuances. People with diabetes suffer disproportionately from acute COVID-19 with higher rates of serious complications and death. In-patient services need specialist support to appropriately manage glycaemia in people with known and undiagnosed diabetes presenting with COVID-19. Due to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, people with diabetes may suffer longer-term harm caused by inadequate clinical support and less frequent monitoring of their condition and diabetes-related complications. Outpatient management need to be reorganised to maintain remote advice and support services, focusing on proactive care for the highest risk, and using telehealth and digital services for consultations, self-management and remote monitoring, where appropriate. Stratification of patients for face-to-face or remote follow-up should be based on a balanced risk assessment. Public health and national organisations have generally responded rapidly with guidance on care management, but the pandemic has created a tension around prioritisation of communicable vs non-communicable disease. Resulting challenges in clinical decision-making are compounded by a reduced clinical workforce. For many years, increasing diabetes mellitus incidence has been mirrored by rising preventable morbidity and mortality due to complications, yet innovation in service delivery has been slow. While the current focus is on limiting the terrible harm caused by the pandemic, it is possible that a positive lasting legacy of COVID-19 might include accelerated innovation in chronic disease management.

Risk factors and prevention strategies for diabetic ketoacidosis in people with established type 1 diabetes

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious acute complication of type 1 diabetes, which is receiving more attention given the increased DKA risk associated with SGLT inhibitors. Sociodemographic and modifiable risk factors were identified with strong evidence for an increased risk of DKA, including socioeconomic disadvantage, adolescent age (13-25 years), female sex, high HbA_1c, previous DKA, and psychiatric comorbidities (eg, eating disorders and depression). Possible prevention strategies, which include the identification of people at risk based on non-modifiable sociodemographic risk factors, are proposed. As a second risk mitigation strategy, structured diabetes self-management education that addresses modifiable risk factors can be used. Evidence has found that structured education leads to reduced DKA rates. Knowledge of these risk factors and potent risk mitigation strategies are important to identify subgroups of people with an elevated DKA risk. This knowledge should also be used when adjunct therapy options with an increased DKA risk are considered. Prevention of DKA in people with type 1 diabetes is an important clinical task, which should also be addressed when SGLT inhibitors are part of therapy.

Intractable hiccups as a rare gastrointestinal manifestation in severe endocrine and metabolic crisis: case report and review of the literature

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and thyroid storm (TS) are severe metabolic and endocrine disorders. Both usually manifest with multiple systemic clinical signs and symptoms, and digestive symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, are most common in these patients. Moreover, the presence of a concurrent severe or rare complication may worsen the condition or even cause death due to misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, or inappropriate treatment. The identification of these symptoms is usually closely related to the severity and prognosis of the disease. Although clinical prognosis might be improved by prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment, some rare and insidious metabolic complications are difficult to identify early. Moreover, life-threatening gastrointestinal symptoms are very rare in patients with DKA and TS. Here, we report an inpatient diagnosed with DKA and Graves' disease who developed life-threatening intractable hiccups resulting in TS and respiratory failure during the treatment of DKA. In addition, we review the literature to discuss the possible underlying mechanism of intractable hiccups in the development of TS.

A modelling study of the budget impact of improved glycaemic control in adults with Type 1 diabetes in the UK

AIMS

To develop a novel interactive budget impact model that assesses affordability of diabetes treatments in specific populations, and to test the model in a hypothetical scenario by estimating cost savings resulting from reduction in HbA_1c from ≥69 mmol/mol (8.5%) to a target of 53 mmol/mol (7.0%) in adults with Type 1 diabetes in the UK.

METHODS

A dynamic, interactive model was created using the projected incidence and progression over a 5-year horizon of diabetes-related complications (micro- and macrovascular disease, severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis) for different HbA_1c levels, with flexible input of population size, complications and therapy costs, HbA_1c distribution and other variables. The model took a National Health Service and societal perspective.

RESULTS

The model was developed, and in the proposed hypothetical situation, reductions in complications and expected costs evaluated. Achievement of target HbA_1c in individuals with HbA_1c ≥69 mmol/mol (8.5%) would reduce expected chronic complications from 6.8 to 1.2 events per 100 person-years, and diabetic ketoacidosis from 14.5 to 1.0 events per 100 person-years. Potential cumulative direct cost savings achievable in the modelled population were estimated at £687 m over 5 years (£5,585/person), with total (direct and indirect) savings of £1,034 m (£8,400/person).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of strategies aimed at achieving target glucose levels in people with Type 1 diabetes in the UK has the potential to drive a significant reduction in complication costs. This estimate may provide insights into the potential for investment in achieving savings through improved diabetes care in the UK.

Association of socioeconomic status and DKA readmission in adults with type 1 diabetes: analysis of the US National Readmission Database

OBJECTIVE

To identify patient and hospital predictors of recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) admissions in adults in the USA with type 1 diabetes, focusing on socioeconomic indicators.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study used the National Readmission Database to identify adult patients with type 1 diabetes admitted for DKA between 2010 and 2015. The index DKA admission was defined as the first admission within the calendar year and the primary outcome was recurrent DKA admission(s) within the same calendar year. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using covariates of patient and hospital factors at the index admission to determine the odds of DKA readmission(s).

RESULTS

Among 181 284 index DKA admissions, 39 693 (22%) had at least one readmission within the calendar year, of which 33 931 (86%) and 5762 (14%) had 1-3 and ≥4 DKA readmissions, respectively. When compared with the highest income quartile, patients in the first and second income quartiles had 46% (95% CI 30% to 64%) and 34% (95% CI 19% to 51%) higher odds of four or more DKA readmissions, respectively. Medicaid and Medicare insurance were both associated with a 3.3-fold adjusted risk (95% CI 3.0 to 3.7) for ≥4 readmissions compared with private insurance, respectively. Younger age, female sex, and discharge against medical advice were also predictive.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower socioeconomic status and Medicaid insurance are strong predictors of DKA readmissions in adults with type 1 diabetes in the USA. Further studies are needed to understand the mediators of this association to inform multilevel interventions for this high-risk population.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The association of socioeconomic status (SES) and hospital admission for DKA has been studied in pediatrics with type 1 diabetes, but the data in adults are limited, and studies evaluating recurrent DKA admissions are scarcer. To our knowledge, this is the first study to describe predictors of recurrent DKA admissions in adults with type 1 diabetes on a national level in the USA. We found that those at highest risk of recurrent DKA are young women with low SES who had Medicaid or Medicare insurance. These findings should prompt further studies to explore the mediators of these disparities in patients with type 1 diabetes, as recurrent DKA results in high healthcare utilization and increased risk of long-term complications.

Regular performance feedback may be key to maintain good quality DKA management: results from a five-year study

OBJECTIVES

We postulate that performance feedback is a prerequisite to ensure sustained improvement in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) management.

DESIGN

The study was based on 'theory of change' concept that suggests changes of primary drivers determine the main outcome. A set of secondary drivers can be implemented to achieve improvements in these primary drivers and thus the main outcome.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a large tertiary care center in the West Midlands, UK. The region has above average prevalence of diabetes and DKA admissions in the country.

PARTICIPANTS

All participants diagnosed with DKA as per national guidelines, except those managed in intensive care unit from April 2014 to March 2018, were included in this study.

INTERVENTIONS

Monthly feedback of performance was the main intervention. Development of a real-time live DKA audit tool, automatic referral system of DKA to the specialist team, electronic monitoring of blood gas measurements and education and redesigning of local (trust) guidelines were the other interventions in this study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Total DKA duration, appropriateness of fixed rate intravenous insulin infusion, fluid prescription, glucose monitoring, ketone monitoring and referral to specialists.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in the duration of DKA postintervention compared with baseline results. However, in the absence of regular feedback, the duration of DKA showed an upward trend nearing baseline values. Similar trends were noted in secondary drivers influencing DKA duration.

CONCLUSION

Based on these results, we recommend regular audit and feedback is required to sustain improvements in DKA management.

Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of type 1 diabetes patients associated with emergency room visits and hospitalizations in Mexico

BACKGROUND

To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients affiliated with the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) and ascertain the socio-demographic and clinical risk factors associated with emergency room (ER) visits and diabetes-related hospitalizations.

METHODS

We conducted secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional study. The study included T1D patients 18 years of age and older who in 2016 attended follow-up visits at the endocrinology department of two IMSS tertiary care hospitals in Mexico City. The study variables included demographics, acute and chronic complications, and healthcare services utilization. Multiple Poisson and negative binomial regressions served to determine the association between the study covariates and the dependent variables: ER visits and diabetes-related hospitalizations.

RESULTS

The study included 192 patients, of which 29.2% were men; average age was 32.3 years, with only 13.6% controlled (glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) < 7%); the mean HbA1C was 9.2, and 64.6% presented chronic complications. During 2016, 39.0% visited ER services, and 33.9% were hospitalized. The common risk factors for ER visits and hospitalization were older age at the beginning of diabetes, severe acute complications, chronic microvascular and macrovascular complications, and other comorbidities. Female sex, high school education, depression, and repeated visits to the endocrinologist were associated with ER visits, whereas active smoking and the interaction between diabetes duration > 10 years and HbA1c > 9.0% were additional risk factors for hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

The poor clinical conditions of T1D patients contribute to explain the escalating demand for health services for diabetes patients at the IMSS. The identification of risk factors enables focalizing interventions to improve the health outcomes of T1D patients and reduce the proportion of ER visits and hospital admissions.

Diabetic Gastroparesis: Principles and Current Trends in Management

This article is a comprehensive review of diabetic gastroparesis, defined as delayed or disordered gastric emptying, including basic principles and current trends in management. This review includes sections on anatomy and physiology, diagnosis and differential diagnosis as well as management and current guidelines for treatment of diabetic gastroparesis. Diabetic gastroparesis (DGp) is a component of autonomic neuropathy resulting from long-standing poorly controlled type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The diagnostic workup of DGp first excludes obstruction and other causes including medications that may mimic delayed/disordered gastric emptying. Targeting nutrition, hydration, symptomatic relief and glycemic control are mainstays of treatment for DGp. Additionally, optimal treatment of DGp includes good glycemic management, often involving customizing insulin delivery using basal-bolus insulin and technology, including sensor-augmented pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Prokinetic medications may be helpful in DGp symptoms, although only limited number of medications is currently available in the USA. Selected medication-refractory patients with DGp may benefit from gastric neuromodulation, and some from surgical interventions including pyloric therapies that can also be done endoscopically. As is true of any of the diabetic complications, prevention of DGp by early and optimal glycemic control is more cost-effective.Funding: Hansa Medcell, India.

Use of Hospitals by Older versus Younger Canadians: Myths and Misconceptions

ABSTRACTThis study investigated concerns regarding the extensive use of hospitals by older people and subsequent long wait lists. We analysed complete individual-anonymous, 2014-2015 inpatient hospital data for all Canadian provinces and territories (except Quebec). People aged 65 and older accounted for 37.0 per cent of all hospital episodes and 41.5 per cent of all admissions to intensive or coronary care units. Similarly, of all admitted individuals, 32.8 per cent were older. The data also revealed only 14.3 per cent of older Canadians living outside of Quebec were admitted to hospital one or more times that year. This study indicates that issues other than hospital use by older people should be addressed in Canada for improved hospital accessibility. Improved care of older persons is also indicated, as their higher risk of hospital admission, longer hospital stays, and dying in hospital could be from a lack of age-informed hospital and community services.

Inequalities in glycaemic control, hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis according to socio-economic status and area-level deprivation in Type 1 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review

AIM

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the associations of individual-level as well as area-level socio-economic status and area-level deprivation with glycaemic control, hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Ovid MEDLINE was searched to identify relevant cohort, case-control or cross-sectional studies published between January 2000 and June 2015. Search results were screened by title, abstract and keywords to identify eligible publications. Decisions on inclusion or exclusion of full texts were made independently by two reviewers. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to estimate the methodological quality of included studies. Quality assessment and extracted data of included studies were synthesized narratively and reported according to the PRISMA statement.

RESULTS

Literature search in Ovid MEDLINE identified 1345 eligible studies. Twenty studies matched our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Two articles were additionally identified through hand search. According to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, most of the studies were of average quality. Results on associations of socio-economic status and area-level deprivation with glycaemic control and hypoglycaemia were contradictory between studies. By contrast, lower socio-economic status and higher area-level deprivation were associated with a higher risk for diabetic ketoacidosis in all except one study.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower socio-economic status and higher area-level deprivation are associated with a higher risk of experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Access to care for socially deprived people needs to be expanded to overcome impairing effects on the course of the condition and to reduce healthcare disparities.

Incidence and prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) among adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D): a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVES

To summarise incidence and prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for the overall patient population and different subgroups (age, sex, geographical region, ethnicity and type of insulin administration).

DESIGN

Systematic literature review (SLR).

DATA SOURCES

Medline (via PubMed) and Embase (1 January 2000 to 23 June 2016).

STUDY SELECTION

Peer-reviewed observational studies with reported data on the incidence or prevalence of DKA in T1D adults were included. A single reviewer completed the study screening and selection process and a second reviewer performed an additional screening of approximately 20% of the publications; two reviewers independently conducted the quality assessment; the results were narratively synthesised.

RESULTS

Out of 1082 articles, 19 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, with two additional studies identified that did not specify the patient age range and are therefore not included in the SLR. Overall, eight studies reported incidence with a range of 0-56 per 1000 person-years (PYs), with one outlying study reporting an incidence of 263 per 1000 PYs. Eleven studies reported prevalence with a range of 0-128 per 1000 people. Prevalence of DKA decreased with increasing age. Subgroup analyses were performed using data from no more than two studies per subgroup. There was a higher prevalence of DKA reported in women, non-whites and patients treated with insulin injections compared with men, whites and patients using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first SLR on the epidemiology of DKA in T1D adults. Despite an increasing prevalence of T1D in recent years, DKA in adults has been poorly characterised. In an era when the benefit-risk profiles of new antidiabetic therapies are being evaluated, including the potential risk of DKA, there is a clear need to better elucidate the expected rate of DKA among T1D adults.

Socioeconomic inequalities in mortality, morbidity and diabetes management for adults with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review

Aims

To systematically review the evidence of socioeconomic inequalities for adults with type 1 diabetes in relation to mortality, morbidity and diabetes management.

Methods

We carried out a systematic search across six relevant databases and included all studies reporting associations between socioeconomic indicators and mortality, morbidity, or diabetes management for adults with type 1 diabetes. Data extraction and quality assessment was undertaken for all included studies. A narrative synthesis was conducted.

Results

A total of 33 studies were identified. Twelve cohort, 19 cross sectional and 2 case control studies met the inclusion criteria. Regardless of healthcare system, low socioeconomic status was associated with poorer outcomes. Following adjustments for other risk factors, socioeconomic status was a statistically significant independent predictor of mortality in 9/10 studies and morbidity in 8/10 studies for adults with type 1 diabetes. There appeared to be an association between low socioeconomic status and some aspects of diabetes management. Although only 3 of 16 studies made adjustments for confounders and other risk factors, poor diabetes management was associated with lower socioeconomic status in 3/3 of these studies.

Conclusions

Low socioeconomic status is associated with higher levels of mortality and morbidity for adults with type 1 diabetes even amongst those with access to a universal healthcare system. The association between low socioeconomic status and diabetes management requires further research given the paucity of evidence and the potential for diabetes management to mitigate the adverse effects of low socioeconomic status.

Geographic Clustering of Acute Complications and Sociodemographic Factors in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

OBJECTIVES

To assess the geographic distribution of acute complications in patients with type 1 diabetes in a large urban centre; and to assess the association between acute complications and community-level sociodemographic factors.

METHODS

Adults (aged ≥18 years old) with type 1 diabetes and acute complications were identified between 2004 and 2008 by using a diabetes centre clinical database or discharge abstracts for acute complications (diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemia). Using a geographic information system, hot-spot analysis was used to identify spatial clusters of acute complications in a large urban centre. The association between acute complications and community-level sociodemographic factors were assessed by Spearman rank correlation.

RESULTS

We identified 1779 patients with type 1 diabetes, of whom 456 had been hospitalized for acute complications. The mean age of patients was 40.9±16.0 years, and men were more likely to have acute complications (59.2% vs. 52.3%; p<0.01). Spatial clusters of high values and low values were identified. Higher median family income (r=-0.36; p<0.0001) and higher education levels (r=-0.30; p<0.0001) were associated with lower rates of acute complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated geographic clusters of hospitalizations for acute complications and important community sociodemographic factors. Prevention strategies and interventions targeting these geographic and sociodemographic disparities need to be explored as a means of minimizing hospitalizations for acute complications.

Risk of death following admission to a UK hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to assess the risk of death during hospital admission for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and, subsequently, following discharge. In addition, we aimed to characterise the risk factors for multiple presentations with DKA.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all DKA admissions between 2007 and 2012 at a university teaching hospital. All patients with type 1 diabetes who were admitted with DKA (628 admissions of 298 individuals) were identified by discharge coding. Clinical, biochemical and mortality data were obtained from electronic patient records and national databases. Follow-up continued until the end of 2014.

RESULTS

Compared with patients with a single DKA admission, those with recurrent DKA (more than five episodes) were diagnosed with diabetes at an earlier age (median 14 [interquartile range 9-23] vs 24 [16-34] years, p < 0.001), had higher levels of social deprivation (p = 0.005) and higher HbA1c values (103 [89-108] vs 79 [66-96] mmol/mol; 11.6% [10.3-12.0%] vs 9.4% [8.2-10.9%], p < 0.001), and tended to be younger (25 [22-36] vs 31 [23-42] years, p = 0.079). Antidepressant use was greater in those with recurrent DKA compared with those with a single episode (47.5% vs 12.6%, p = 0.001). The inpatient DKA mortality rate was no greater than 0.16%. A single episode of DKA was associated with a 5.2% risk of death (4.1 [2.8-6.0] years of follow-up) compared with 23.4% in those with recurrent DKA admissions (2.4 [2.0-3.8] years of follow-up) (HR 6.18, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Recurrent DKA is associated with substantial mortality, particularly among young, socially disadvantaged adults with very high HbA1c levels.

Temporal variation of diabetic ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia in adults with type 1 diabetes: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Seasonality in health outcomes has long been recognized for conditions such as colds and flus. The aim of the present study was to determine whether hospitalizations for acute complications of type 1 diabetes (T1D) vary by month and season.

METHODS

An observational study was performed of national administrative health data. Hospitalizations for acute complications in adults (aged ≥18 years) with T1D were identified using ICD-10 (Canadian revision) codes between 2004 and 2010. Monthly and seasonal counts per year were determined for the study period. For each acute complication, the ratio of the number of observed hospitalizations/expected number of hospitalizations was calculated for each month and season per year, adjusting for varied lengths of month, season, and year.

RESULTS

In all, there were 21 568 hospitalizations for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and 5349 hospitalizations for hypoglycemia during the study period. December had higher than expected hospitalizations for DKA and March had higher than expected hospitalizations for hypoglycemia. There did not appear to be variation for either DKA or hypoglycemia hospitalizations by season.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study suggest temporal variation in hospitalizations for DKA and hypoglycemia, and therefore signal important times of patient vulnerability. Potential mechanisms underlying this pattern warrant further examination. Prevention strategies and resources for patients with T1D may need to be increased at specific times during the year.

Association between diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalizations and driving distance to outpatient diabetes centres in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) hospitalization and driving distance from home to outpatient diabetes care in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

We identified adults with type 1 diabetes using clinical and administrative databases living in Calgary, Alberta. The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, codes were used to identify DKA hospitalizations, and geographic information systems were used to obtain road distance. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between driving distance (exposure) to diabetes care sites and the outcome of DKA hospitalization.

RESULTS

We identified 1467 patients (151 patients with DKA) with type 1 diabetes. Patients with DKA hospitalizations were younger (35.6 vs. 41.0 years), had shorter duration of diabetes (13.6 vs. 18.7 years) and higher glycated hemoglobin (9.2% vs. 8.4%). Driving distance from home to diabetes centre 1 (adjusted odds ratio 1.02 per 1 km; 95% confidence interval, 0.96 to 1.07), diabetes centre 2 (adjusted odds ratio 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.99 to 1.04) or closest general practitioner (adjusted odds ratio 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.63 to 1.25) was not associated with DKA hospitalization. Driving distance was also not associated with glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Within a large urban city, driving distance to diabetes centres does not appear to be protective of DKA hospitalization. However, this work does not preclude the role of local travel distance and diabetes outcomes. More research is required to explore the role of other individual, neighbourhood and community factors that influence DKA hospitalization.