High risk for venous thromboembolism in diabetics with hyperosmolar state: comparison with other acute medical illnesses

Glycaemic Imbalances in Seizures and Epilepsy of Paediatric Age: A Literature Review

Cerebral excitability and systemic metabolic balance are closely interconnected. Energy supply to neurons depends critically on glucose, whose fluctuations can promote immediate hyperexcitability resulting in acute symptomatic seizures. On the other hand, chronic disorders of sugar metabolism (e.g., diabetes mellitus) are often associated with long-term epilepsy. In this paper, we aim to review the existing knowledge on the association between acute and chronic glycaemic imbalances (hyper- and hypoglycaemia) with seizures and epilepsy, especially in the developing brain, focusing on clinical and instrumental features in order to optimize the care of children and adolescents and prevent the development of chronic neurological conditions in young patients.

Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state and cerebral thrombophlebitis in paediatrics: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) is a known complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus; however, carbonated carbohydrate fluid intake may precipitate a more severe presentation of type 1 diabetes mellitus with hyperosmolar state. The management of these patients is not easy and can lead to severe complications such as cerebral venous thrombosis.

METHODS

We present the case of a 21-month-old boy admitted for consciousness disorders revealing a hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state on a new-onset type 1 diabetes and who developed cerebral venous thrombosis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Emergency physicians should be aware of HHS in order to start the appropriate treatment as early as possible and to monitor the potential associated acute complications. This case highlights the importance of decreasing very gradually the osmolarity in order to avoid cerebral complications. Cerebral venous thrombosis in HHS paediatric patients is rarely described, and it is important to recognize that not all episodes of acute neurological deterioration in HHS or diabetic ketoacidosis are caused by cerebral oedema.

Management of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS) in Adults: An updated guideline from the Joint British Diabetes Societies (JBDS) for Inpatient Care Group

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State (HHS) is a medical emergency associated with high mortality. It occurs less frequently than diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), affects those with pre-existing/new type 2 diabetes mellitus and increasingly affecting children/younger adults. Mixed DKA/HHS may occur. The JBDS HHS care pathway consists of 3 themes (clinical assessment and monitoring, interventions, assessments and prevention of harm) and 5 phases of therapy (0-60 min, 1-6, 6-12, 12-24 and 24-72 h). Clinical features of HHS include marked hypovolaemia, osmolality ≥320 mOsm/kg using [(2×Na+ ) + glucose+urea], marked hyperglycaemia ≥30 mmol/L, without significant ketonaemia (≤3.0 mmol/L), without significant acidosis (pH >7.3) and bicarbonate ≥15 mmol/L. Aims of the therapy are to improve clinical status/replace fluid losses by 24 h, gradual decline in osmolality (3.0-8.0 mOsm/kg/h to minimise the risk of neurological complications), blood glucose 10-15 mmol/L in the first 24 h, prevent hypoglycaemia/hypokalaemia and prevent harm (VTE, osmotic demyelination, fluid overload, foot ulceration). Underlying precipitants must be identified and treated. Interventions include: (1) intravenous (IV) 0.9% sodium chloride to restore circulating volume (fluid losses 100-220 ml/kg, caution in elderly), (2) fixed rate intravenous insulin infusion (FRIII) should be commenced once osmolality stops falling with fluid replacement unless there is ketonaemia (FRIII should be commenced at the same time as IV fluids). (3) glucose infusion (5% or 10%) should be started once glucose <14 mmol/L and (4) potassium replacement according to potassium levels. HHS resolution criteria are: osmolality <300 mOsm/kg, hypovolaemia corrected (urine output ≥0.5 ml/kg/h), cognitive status returned to pre-morbid state and blood glucose <15 mmol/L.

Association between Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State and Venous Thromboembolism in Diabetes Patients: A Nationwide Analysis in Taiwan

Background: Previous studies in Western countries have shown that a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE); in these cases, prophylactic anticoagulant treatment is suggested. However, the association between HHS and VTE in Asian populations remains undetermined. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate whether HHS is associated with an increased risk of VTE in diabetic Taiwanese patients. Methods: This nationwide, population-based, retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. We enrolled a total of 4,723,607 admission records of patients with diabetes diagnosed with one or more of seven common diseases (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, heart disease, stroke, malignancy, and respiratory tract disease) between 2001 and 2018 in Taiwan. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence (n = 46,000) or absence (n = 4,677,607) of HHS. We estimated the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for developing VTE within 90 days after the index hospitalization using multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations accounting for repeated measures. Results: Overall, patients admitted with HHS had a similar risk of VTE compared with those admitted without HHS (408/46,000 vs. 39,345/4,677,607; aOR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.97–1.17, p = 0.190). A similar non-significant association between HHS and VTE was found regardless of age and sex subgroups. Conclusions: There was no significant association between HHS and overall VTE risk in patients with diabetes in Taiwan. The results of our study may not support the use of prophylactic anticoagulant therapy in diabetic Taiwanese patients with HHS.

Updates in the Management of Hyperglycemic Crisis

Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects the metabolism of primary macronutrients such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Due to the high prevalence of DM, emergency admissions for hyperglycemic crisis, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) are fairly common and represent very challenging clinical management in practice. DKA and HHS are associated with high mortality rates if left not treated. The mortality rate for patients with DKA is &lt; 1% and ~ 15% for HHS. DKA and HHS have similar pathophysiology with some few differences. HHS pathophysiology is not fully understood. However, an absolute or relative effective insulin concentration reduction and increased in catecholamines, cortisol, glucagon, and growth hormones represent the mainstay behind DKA pathophysiology. Reviewing the patient’s history to identify and modify any modifiable precipitating factors is crucial to prevent future events. The aim of this review article is to provide a review of the DKA, and HHS management based on the most recently published evidence and to provide suggested management pathway of DKA of HHS management in practice.

Triple emergencies: Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, venous thromboembolism, and huge free-floating right heart thrombus successfully managed with anticoagulation

A 57-year-old man, with type 2 diabetes mellitus, was admitted with a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, who developed in-hospital venous thromboembolism with huge free-floating right heart thrombus, and there is no available optimal treatment option for the huge free-floating right heart thrombus, except anticoagulation with warfarin and low molecular weight heparin with successful outcome.

Calculated plasma osmolality at hospital admission correlates well with eGFR and D-Dimer, a simple outcome predictor and guiding tool for management of severe COVID-19 patients

AIMS

To evaluate calculated total plasma osmolality as a marker of outcome prediction, fluid and metabolic balance, thrombotic risk in severe COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

Retrospective data of RT-PCR confirmed hospitalized severe COVID-19 patients (total: n = 175 patients, including diabetic subset: n = 102) were analyzed. Clinically applicable cut-offs were derived using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for calculated total osmolality, eGFR, and D-dimer, and their correlations were studied.

RESULTS

Among 175 severe COVID-19 patients, a significant association with mortality was seen with respect to calculated total osmolality (p < 0.001), eGFR (p < 0.001), and D-dimer (p < 0.001). In the total cohort, applicable cut-offs based on ROC curve in predicting outcome were, for total osmolality 299 mosm/kg (area under the curve (AUC)-0.773, odds ratio (OR)-1.09), eGFR 61.5 ml/min/m2 (AUC-0.789, OR-0.96), D-dimer 5.13 (AUC-0.814, OR-2.65) respectively. In diabetic subset, the cut-offs for total osmolality were 298 mosm/kg (AUC-0.794, OR-1.12), eGFR 44.9 ml/min/m2 (AUC-0.774, OR-0.96) and D-dimer 1.59 (AUC-0.769, OR-1.52) respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Applicable cut-offs for calculated total plasma osmolality, eGFR, and D-dimer predicts clinical outcome in severe COVID-19 with and without diabetes. Correlation studies validated calculated total osmolality as a marker of the combined effect of fluid and metabolic imbalance, compromised renal function and hypercoagulability.

Electrolyte and acid-base imbalance in severe COVID-19

Acute systemic diseases, such as severe infections, can lead to electrolyte and acid-base alterations. To study the presence of electrolyte imbalance in severe COVID-19, we investigated the frequency and consequences of changes in electrolyte and acid-base patterns over time. We performed a retrospective cohort study including 406 patients with severe COVID-19. Levels of electrolytes, base excess, pH, serum osmolality, and hematocrit, the first 2 weeks of hospitalization, were collected daily from the laboratory database and clinical data from patients' medical records. We found that hyponatremia was present in 57% of the patients at admission and 2% in hypernatremia. However, within 2 weeks of hospitalization 42% of the patients developed hypernatremia, more frequently in critically ill patients. Lower levels of sodium and potassium during admission were associated with the need for mechanical ventilation. Decreased pH at admission was associated with both death and the need for mechanical ventilation. Hypernatremia in the ICU was combined with rising base excess and a higher pH. In the group without intensive care, potassium levels were significantly lower in the patients with severe hypernatremia. Presence of hypernatremia during the first 2 weeks of hospitalization was associated with 3.942 (95% CI 2.269-6.851) times higher odds of death. In summary, hypernatremia was common and associated with longer hospital stay and a higher risk of death, suggesting that the dynamics of sodium are an important indicator of severity in COVID-19.

The effect of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and its treatment on clot microstructure: Are they thrombogenic?

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate and is associated with severe metabolic acidosis and dehydration. DKA patients have an increased risk of arterial and venous thromboembolism, however little is known about this metabolic derangement in the first 24 hours of admission and to assess its effect on coagulation. We therefore utilised a novel functional marker of clot microstructure (fractal dimension - df) to assess these changes within the first 24 hours.

METHODS

Prospective single centre observational study to demonstrate whether the tendency of blood clot formation differs in DKA patients.

RESULTS

15 DKA patients and 15 healthy matched controls were recruited. Mean df in the healthy control group was 1.74±0.03. An elevated df of 1.78±0.07 was observed in patients with DKA on admission. The mean pH on admission was 7.14±0.13 and the lactate was 3.6±2.0. df changed significantly in response to standard treatment and was significantly reduced to 1.68±0.09 (2-6& h) and to 1.66±0.08 at 24& h (p < 0.01 One-way ANOVA). df also correlated significantly with lactate and pH (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.479 and -0.675 respectively, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DKA patients at presentation have a densely organising less permeable thrombogenic clot microstructure as evidenced by high df. These structural changes are due to a combination of dehydration and a profound metabolic acidosis, which was reversed with treatment. These changes were not mirrored in standard clinical markers of thromboge-nicity.

Acute Metabolic Emergencies in Diabetes: DKA, HHS and EDKA

Emergency admissions due to acute metabolic crisis in patients with diabetes remain some of the most common and challenging conditions. DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis), HHS (Hyperglycaemic Hyperosmolar State) and recently focused EDKA (Euglycaemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis) are life-threatening different entities. DKA and HHS have distinctly different pathophysiology but basic management protocols are the same. EDKA is just like DKA but without hyperglycaemia. T1D, particularly children are vulnerable to DKA and T2D, particularly elderly with comorbidities are vulnerable to HHS. But these are not always the rule, these acute conditions are often occur in different age groups with diabetes. It is essential to have a coordinated care from the multidisciplinary team to ensure the timely delivery of right treatment. DKA and HHS, in many instances can present as a mixed entity as well. Mortality rate is higher for HHS than DKA but incidences of DKA are much higher than HHS. The prevalence of HHS in children and young adults are increasing due to exponential growth of obesity and increasing T2D cases in this age group. Following introduction of SGLT2i (Sodium-GLucose co-Transporter-2 inhibitor) for T2D and off-label use in T1D, some incidences of EDKA has been reported. Healthcare professionals should be more vigilant during acute illness in diabetes patients on SGLT2i without hyperglycaemia to rule out EDKA. Middle aged, mildly obese and antibody negative patients who apparently resemble as T2D without any precipitating causes sometime end up with DKA which is classified as KPD (Ketosis-prone diabetes). Many cases can be prevented by following 'Sick day rules'. Better access to medical care, structured diabetes education to patients and caregivers are key measures to prevent acute metabolic crisis.

Clinical profiles of hyperglycemic crises: A single-center retrospective study from Japan

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to clarify the pathophysiologies of hyperglycemic crises in Japanese patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients with hyperglycemic crises admitted to Kumamoto Medical Center, Kumamoto, Japan, between 2012 and 2019. Patients were classified as having diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmotic syndrome (HHS) or a mixed state of the two conditions (MIX), and laboratory data and levels of consciousness at hospital admission, as well as the rates of mortality and coagulation disorders, were compared.

RESULTS

The diagnostic criteria for hyperglycemic crisis were met in 144 cases, comprising 87 (60.4%), 38 (26.4%) and 19 (13.2%) cases of DKA, HHS and MIX, respectively. Type 1 diabetes was noted in 46.0 and 26.3% of patients in the DKA and MIX groups, respectively. Fibrin degradation product and D-dimer levels were significantly higher in the HHS group than in the DKA group (DKA and HHS groups: fibrin degradation product 7.94 ± 8.43 and 35.54 ± 51.80 μg/mL, respectively, P < 0.01; D-dimer 2.830 ± 2.745 and 14.846 ± 21.430 μg/mL, respectively, P < 0.01). Mortality rates were 5.7, 13.2 and 5.3% in the DKA, HHS and MIX groups, respectively. Seven patients (4.9%), four of whom were in the MIX group, had acute arterial occlusive diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The low frequency of type 1 diabetes in DKA and MIX might be responsible for reduced insulin secretion in Japanese populations. Patients with hyperglycemic crises have increased coagulability, and acute arterial occlusion needs to be considered, particularly in MIX.

Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State During Induction Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

We present the case of a 16-year-old boy who presented with fatigue, polyuria, and polydipsia while on chemotherapy for his relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Blood gas examination confirmed the diagnosis of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. The etiology for his hyperglycemia was most likely a result of oral glucocorticoid therapy combined with asparaginase therapy-both are a cornerstone of induction chemotherapy for ALL. The patient was aggressively rehydrated with saline, and medications were administered to correct his hyperkalemia. He was then slowly brought to euglycemia with a continuous infusion of insulin. Although hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state is rare during the treatment of ALL, frontline providers should be aware of this diagnosis because of the significant risk of hypovolemic shock and death if correction of hyperglycemia occurs prior to complete fluid resuscitation.

Deep Venous Thrombosis among hypertensive patients in King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a frequent cardiovascular disorder. It is among the main causes of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients and, at the same time, can be easily avoided. Studies clarified that there are a variety of factors which can be significantly associated with the development of DVT in hospitalized patients.

Objective

to identify frequency and factors associated with occurrence of DVT among hypertensive patients referred to KAU hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted from October 2016 to March, 2017. All hypertensive patients referred to or admitted to the hospital departments and who were suspected to have DVT and subjected to Doppler examination were included in the study. A questionnaire was designed to obtain data about DVT frequency among participants and factors associated with the development of DVT among them. Data was collected through face to face interviews of patients included in the study.

Results

DVT was detected in 13.5 % of the studied hypertensive patients. Increased age and gender had no significant association with the development of DVT among the studied patients. In addition, other studied factors and comorbidities had no significant role in DVT development among the study participants.

Conclusion

Knowing the most common risk factors and their significance in developing DVT is essential for early detection of DVT to prevent it, especially for hypertensive patients. Awareness campaigns should be held more often in different neighborhoods of the city.

Deep venous thrombosis among diabetic patients in King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients worldwide and, simultaneously, the most preventable. Studies revealed several risk factors of deep venous thrombosis in hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVE

to identify frequency and factors associated with occurrence of deep venous thrombosis among diabetic patients referred to King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

This cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted from June to December, 2016. All diabetic patients referred to the hospital departments and who were suspected to have deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and subjected to Doppler examination were included in the study. A questionnaire was designed to obtain data about deep venous thrombosis frequency among participants and factors associated with the development of deep venous thrombosis among them. Data was collected through face to face interviews with patients included in the study. We used SPSS version 16 for data analysis through descriptive statistics and Chi-square test.

RESULTS

DVT was detected in 14.7 % of the examined patients. There were significant and positive associations between age and DVT (X2=10.13, p=0.03) and between ischemic heart disease and DVT (X2=1.628, p=0.043) with the development of deep venous thrombosis among the studied patients. On the other hand, gender, other comorbidities, history of previous DVT, being bed ridden and using orthopedic casting were not significantly associated with the occurrence of deep venous thrombosis among the participants.

CONCLUSION

DVT development rate among the participants was 14.7 %. Aging was significantly associated with DVT occurrence. Most of the studied factors and comorbidities had no significant role in DVT development among participants and only ischemic heart disease was significantly associated with DVT development.

Controversies in the management of hyperglycaemic emergencies in adults with diabetes

Hyperglycaemic emergencies are associated with significant morbi-mortality and healthcare costs. Management consists on fluid replacement, insulin therapy, and electrolyte correction. However, some areas of patient management remain debatable. In patients without respiratory failure or haemodynamic instability, arterial and venous pH and bicarbonate measurements are comparable. Fluid choice varies upon replenishment phase and patient's condition. If patient is severely hypovolaemic, normal saline solution should be the first option. However, if patient has mild/moderate dehydration, fluid choice must take in consideration sodium concentration. Insulin therapy should be guided by β-hydroxybutyrate normalization and not by blood glucose. Variations of conventional insulin infusion protocols emerged recently. Priming dose of insulin may not be required, and fixed rate insulin infusion represents the best option to suppress hepatic glucose production, ketogenesis, and lipolysis. Concomitant administration of basal insulin analogues with regular insulin infusion accelerates ketoacidosis resolution and prevents rebound hyperglycaemia. Simpler protocols using subcutaneous rapid-acting insulin analogues for mild/moderate diabetic ketoacidosis treatment have proven to be safe and effective, but further studies are required to confirm these results. Treatment with bicarbonate, phosphate, and low-molecular-weight heparin is still disputable, and randomized controlled trials are urgently needed to optimize patient management and decrease the morbi-mortality of hyperglycaemic emergencies.

Thrombosis secondary to acute hypernatraemia after liver hydatid cyst surgery

Hypernatraemia after hypertonic saline irrigation of a hepatitic hydatid cyst is a rare but serious complication. Neurological symptoms and signs are frequently seen in hypernatraemia. However, other symptoms, such as fever, acute pulmonary oedema, congestive cardiac failure and muscular alterations, may appear. It has recently been suggested that hypernatraemia increases the risk of thrombosis.We present the first report of an adult patient who survived a severe acute iatrogenic hypernatraemia and hyper-coagulability resulting from hypertonic saline irrigation of intra-abdominal hydatid cysts.

Heart failure and risk of venous thromboembolism: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism is a major global health problem that is often secondary to other clinical situations. Many studies have investigated the association between venous thromboembolism and heart failure, but have yielded inconsistent findings. We aimed to quantify the absolute and relative risks (RR) for venous thromboembolism in patients with heart failure after hospital admission. We also assessed rates of venous thromboembolism in patients in different settings.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched for studies investigating the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients in hospital with heart failure. We searched for studies published between Jan 1, 1955, and March 31, 2015, in PubMed, Embase, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Ovid HealthSTAR, Global Health, Ovid Nursing Database, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus, ProQuest Central, Conference Papers Index, BIOSIS Previews, and ClinicalTrials.gov. All cohort studies and subgroup analyses of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion if they reported venous thromboembolism rates (number of events per follow-up period) or RR estimates. We extracted data from published reports and contacted the corresponding authors of records with insufficient quantitative data. RRs and 95% CIs were pooled using a random-effects model. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42014015504.

FINDINGS

Of 8673 records identified, we included 71 studies with data from 88 cohorts in our analysis, with 59 cohorts included in the assessment of venous thromboembolism rates and 46 cohorts included in the meta-analysis of heart failure and risk of venous thromboembolism. Venous thromboembolism rates varied widely in patients in hospital with heart failure from different settings. The overall median symptomatic venous thromboembolism rate was 2·48% (IQR 0·84-5·61); rates was were 3·73% (1·05-7·31) for patients who did not receive thromboprophylaxis and 1·47% (0·64-3·54) for those who did. Overall, patients with heart failure in hospital had an RR of 1·51 (1·36-1·68) for venous thromboembolism. The overall I(2) statistic was 96·1% and there was no evidence of publication bias (Egger's test, p=0·46).

INTERPRETATION

Heart failure is a common independent risk factor for venous thromboembolism. Thromoboprophylaxis should be considered in clinical practice for high-risk patients.

FUNDING

National Natural Science Foundation.

Presumed paradoxical embolus in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis

Thrombotic complications figure among the most frequent causes of mortality in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar state. We report the case of a 55-year-old woman presenting with DKA whereby a newly discovered patent foramen ovale was found due in part to the observation of bilateral deep vein thrombosis in legs, bilateral multiple pulmonary embolisms, and left subclavian acute artery thrombosis. Diabetes is known as a hypercoagulability state, and DKA is rising as a risk factor for vascular events. The importance of prophylactic anticoagulation should be emphasized in this setting.

Ethnic diversity in the genetics of venous thromboembolism

Genetic susceptibility is considered as a crucial factor for the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Epidemiologic and genetic studies have revealed clear disparities in the incidence of VTE and the distribution of genetic factors for VTE in populations stratified by ethnicity worldwide. While gain-of-function polymorphisms in the procoagulant genes are common inherited factors in European-origin populations, the most prevalent molecular basis for venous thrombosis in Asians is confirmed to be dysfunctional variants in the anticoagulant genes. With the breakthrough of genomic technologies, a set of novel common alleles and rare mutations associated with VTE have also been identified, in different ethnic groups. Several putative pathways contributing to the pathogenesis of thrombophilia in populations of African-ancestry are largely unknown, as current knowledge of hereditary and acquired risk factors do not fully explain the highest risk of VTE in Black groups. In-depth studies across diverse ethnic populations are needed to unravel the whole genetics of VTE, which will help developing individual risk prediction models and strategies to minimise VTE in all populations.

Management of hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state in adults with diabetes

Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) is a medical emergency, which differs from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and requires a different approach. The present article summarizes the recent guidance on HHS that has been produced by the Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care, available in full at http://www.diabetologists-abcd.org.uk/JBDS/JBDS_IP_HHS_Adults.pdf. HHS has a higher mortality rate than DKA and may be complicated by myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, cerebral oedema and central pontine myelinolysis and there is some evidence that rapid changes in osmolality during treatment may be the precipitant of central pontine myelinolysis. Whilst DKA presents within hours of onset, HHS comes on over many days, and the dehydration and metabolic disturbances are more extreme. The key points in these HHS guidelines include: (1) monitoring of the response to treatment: (i) measure or calculate the serum osmolality regularly to monitor the response to treatment and (ii) aim to reduce osmolality by 3-8 mOsm/kg/h; (2) fluid and insulin administration: (i) use i.v. 0.9% sodium chloride solution as the principal fluid to restore circulating volume and reverse dehydration, (ii) fluid replacement alone will cause a fall in blood glucose (BG) level, (iii) withhold insulin until the BG level is no longer falling with i.v. fluids alone (unless ketonaemic), (iv) an initial rise in sodium level is expected and is not itself an indication for hypotonic fluids and (v) early use of insulin (before fluids) may be detrimental; and (3) delivery of care: (i) The diabetes specialist team should be involved as soon as possible and (ii) patients should be nursed in areas where staff are experienced in the management of HHS.

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state: a historic review of the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment

The hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is the most serious acute hyperglycemic emergency in patients with type 2 diabetes. von Frerichs and Dreschfeld described the first cases of HHS in the 1880s in patients with an "unusual diabetic coma" characterized by severe hyperglycemia and glycosuria in the absence of Kussmaul breathing, with a fruity breath odor or positive acetone test in the urine. Current diagnostic HHS criteria include a plasma glucose level >600 mg/dL and increased effective plasma osmolality >320 mOsm/kg in the absence of ketoacidosis. The incidence of HHS is estimated to be <1% of hospital admissions of patients with diabetes. The reported mortality is between 10 and 20%, which is about 10 times higher than the mortality rate in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Despite the severity of this condition, no prospective, randomized studies have determined best treatment strategies in patients with HHS, and its management has largely been extrapolated from studies of patients with DKA. There are many unresolved questions that need to be addressed in prospective clinical trials regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of pediatric and adult patients with HHS.

Secretion of von Willebrand factor by endothelial cells links sodium to hypercoagulability and thrombosis

Hypercoagulability increases risk of thrombi that cause cardiovascular events. Here we identify plasma sodium concentration as a factor that modulates blood coagulability by affecting the production of von Willebrand factor (vWF), a key initiator of the clotting cascade. We find that elevation of salt over a range from the lower end of what is normal in blood to the level of severe hypernatremia reversibly increases vWF mRNA in endothelial cells in culture and the rate of vWF secretion from them. The high NaCl increases expression of tonicity-regulated transcription factor NFAT5 and its binding to promoter of vWF gene, suggesting involvement of hypertonic signaling in vWF up-regulation. To elevate NaCl in vivo, we modeled mild dehydration, subjecting mice to water restriction (WR) by feeding them with gel food containing 30% water. Such WR elevates blood sodium from 145.1 ± 0.5 to 150.2 ± 1.3 mmol/L and activates hypertonic signaling, evidenced from increased expression of NFAT5 in tissues. WR increases vWF mRNA in liver and lung and raises vWF protein in blood. Immunostaining of liver revealed increased production of vWF protein by endothelium and increased number of microthrombi inside capillaries. WR also increases blood level of D-dimer, indicative of ongoing coagulation and thrombolysis. Multivariate regression analysis of clinical data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study demonstrated that serum sodium significantly contributes to prediction of plasma vWF and risk of stroke. The results indicate that elevation of extracellular sodium within the physiological range raises vWF sufficiently to increase coagulability and risk of thrombosis.

Preoperative hypernatremia predicts increased perioperative morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND

The prognostic implications of preoperative hypernatremia are unknown. We sought to determine whether preoperative hypernatremia is a predictor of 30-day perioperative morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study using the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and identified 908,869 adult patients undergoing major surgery from approximately 300 hospitals from the years 2005 to 2010. We followed the patients for 30-day perioperative outcomes, which included death, major coronary events, wound infections, pneumonia, and venous thromboembolism. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of 30-day perioperative outcomes.

RESULTS

The 20,029 patients (2.2%) with preoperative hypernatremia (>144 mmol/L) were compared with the 888,840 patients with a normal baseline sodium (135-144 mmol/L). Hypernatremia was associated with a higher odds for 30-day mortality (5.2% vs 1.3%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33-1.56), and this finding was consistent in all subgroups. The odds increased according to the severity of hypernatremia (P < .001 for pairwise comparison for mild [145-148 mmol/L] vs severe [>148 mmol/L] categories). Furthermore, hypernatremia was associated with a greater odds for perioperative major coronary events (1.6% vs 0.7%; aOR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.03-1.32), pneumonia (3.4% vs 1.5%; aOR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.13-1.34), and venous thromboembolism (1.8% vs 0.9%; OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.14-1.42).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative hypernatremia is associated with increased perioperative 30-day morbidity and mortality.

Safety of intrahospital transport in ventilated critically ill patients: a multicenter cohort study*

OBJECTIVES

To describe intrahospital transport complications in critically ill patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation.

DESIGN

Prospective multicenter cohort study.

SETTING

Twelve French ICUs belonging to the OUTCOMEREA study group.

PATIENTS

Patients older than or equal to 18 years old admitted in the ICU and requiring invasive mechanical ventilation between April 2000 and November 2010 were included.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Six thousand two hundred forty-two patients on invasive mechanical ventilation were identified in the OUTCOMEREA database. The statistical analysis included a description of demographic and clinical characteristics of the cohort, identification of risk factors for intrahospital transport and construction of an intrahospital transport propensity score, and an exposed/unexposed study to compare complication of intrahospital transport (excluding transport to the operating room) after adjustment on the propensity score, length of stay, and confounding factors on the day before intrahospital transport. Three thousand and six intrahospital transports occurred in 1,782 patients (28.6%) (1-17 intrahospital transports/patient). Transported patients had higher admission Simplified Acute Physiology Score II values (median [interquartile range], 51 [39-65] vs 46 [33-62], p < 10) and longer ICU stay lengths (12 [6-23] vs 5 [3-11] d, p < 10). Post-intrahospital transport complications were recorded in 621 patients (37.4%). We matched 1,659 intrahospital transport patients to 3,344 nonintrahospital transport patients according to the intrahospital transport propensity score and previous ICU stay length. After adjustment, intrahospital transport patients were at higher risk for various complications (odds ratio = 1.9; 95% CI, 1.7-2.2; p < 10), including pneumothorax, atelectasis, ventilator-associated pneumonia, hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and hypernatremia. Intrahospital transport was associated with a longer ICU length of stay but had no significant impact on mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Intrahospital transport increases the risk of complications in ventilated critically ill patients. Continuous quality improvement programs should include specific procedures to minimize intrahospital transport-related risks.

Managing hyperglycaemic emergencies: an illustrative case and review of recent British guidelines

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic syndrome are important hyperglycaemic emergencies seen in patients with diabetes. Occasionally, differentiation between the two conditions can be difficult. We present the case of a patient whose hyperglycaemic emergency was managed in a way that could have adversely influenced the outcome. We also discuss important aspects of the new Joint British Diabetes Societies Guidelines on the management of hyperglycaemic emergencies.

Preeclampsia, hypoxia, thrombosis, and inflammation

Reductions in uteroplacental flow initiate a cascade of molecular effects leading to hypoxia, thrombosis, inflammation, and endothelial cell dysfunction resulting in untoward pregnancy outcomes. In this review, we detail these effects and their relationship to preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Aggressive fluid resuscitation in severe pediatric hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome: a case report

Objective. This report describes a severe case of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome complicated by rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury, hyperthermia, and hypovolemic shock, with management centred upon fluid administration. Design. Case report. Setting. Pediatric intensive care unit in university teaching hospital. Patients. 12 years old adolescent female presenting with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Intervention. Aggressive fluid resuscitation and insulin. Main results. The patient had a good outcome, discharged home on hospital day 6. Conclusions. Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome is associated with a number of complications. Management strategies are undefined, given the rarity of its presentation, and further studies are warranted.

Is diabetes mellitus an independent risk factor for venous thromboembolism?: a population-based case-control study

OBJECTIVE

Although diabetes mellitus is reported as a risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), persons with diabetes are frequently hospitalized for medical illness or surgery, or confined to a nursing home, all major VTE risk factors. Consequently, we tested diabetes for an independent association with incident VTE.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using Rochester Epidemiology Project resources, we identified all Olmsted County, Minn residents who met objective criteria for incident VTE over the 25-year period, 1976 to 2000 (n=1922), and 1 to 2 resident controls per case, matched on age, gender, and length of medical history (n=2115). Complete medical histories in the community were reviewed for previously identified independent VTE risk factors and diabetes-related variables. We tested diabetes and diabetes complications (retinopathy, nephropathy or neuropathy, and ketoacidosis) as potential VTE risk factors, both alone and after adjusting for VTE risk factors. Univariately, diabetes by clinical diagnosis or by stricter criteria (fasting ambulatory blood glucose >/=140 mg/dL or antidiabetic drug therapy), and diabetes complications, were associated with overall incident VTE. However, after controlling for hospitalization for major surgery or medical illness and nursing home confinement, diabetes was no longer associated with VTE.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes mellitus and diabetes complications are not independent risk factors for incident VTE.

Serious venous thromboembolism, heterozygous factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A mutations in a patient with Klinefelter syndrome and type 2 diabetes

Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) is a common cause of man infertility characterized by small testes, gynecomastia and hypogonadism. Deep vein thrombosis and thomboembolic events are frequent in these patients. Hormone imbalance and co-existent mutations in the coagulation system may be the primary factors in this hypercoagulable state. The increased thromboembolic risk in hypogonadic men has been explained by hypofibrinolysis due to androgen deficiency. Regarding the association between KS and congenital and acquired thrombophilias, to date, only three cases have been. Here, we present the youngest KS case with pulmonary thromboembolism with the heterozygous mutations in factor V Leiden and prothrombin genes, as detected by further tests. He had the previous diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and body mass index was 30 kg/m(2). Our report discusses the prothrombotic state in KS patients, with other possible causes for the young presentation and the importance of necessary tests in emergency service admissions with embolism.

Chronic superior mesenteric venous thrombosis revealed by diabetic ketonuria and bacteremia

We report a patient with superior mesenteric venous thrombosis presenting as diabetic ketonuria and bacteremia. The patient was a 65-year-old man with a history of diabetes mellitus, and was admitted to our hospital due to high fever. Tests revealed diabetic ketonuria and Bacteroides fragilis bacteremia. Abdominal computed tomographic scan and Doppler sonography revealed an old thrombus in the superior mesenteric vein with good flow through collateral vessels, causing the patient to have an absence of abdominal symptoms. There was no evidence of hereditary thrombophilia. The thrombus was secondary to a combination of comorbidities, including dehydration, hyperosmolarity, and diabetes mellitus.