ISPAD clinical practice consensus guidelines 2022: Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state

Association of Diabetic Ketoacidosis at Onset, Diabetes Technology Uptake, and Clinical Outcomes After 1 and 2 Years of Follow-up: A Collaborative Analysis of Pediatric Registries Involving 9,269 Children With Type 1 Diabetes From Nine Countries

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the association between diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at type 1 diabetes diagnosis and long-term glycemic outcomes, insulin requirements, BMI SD score (SDS), and diabetes technology uptake in youth.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were from nine countries (Austria, Czechia, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Slovenia, Switzerland, and U.S. [Colorado]), including youth (0.5-15.9 years) diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2019-2020 and followed for 2 years thereafter. Participants were divided into three groups: no DKA, nonsevere, and severe DKA at diagnosis. HbA1c, insulin requirements, BMI SDS, and use of technology, including automated insulin delivery (AID), were assessed.

RESULTS

The analysis included 9,269 individuals (54.8% males, mean age 9.0 years). DKA at diagnosis was observed in 34.2% of participants and severe DKA in 12.8%. After 1 year, adjusted mean HbA1c was higher in the severe DKA group (7.41%) compared with nonsevere DKA (7.23%, P = 0.001) and no DKA groups (7.14, P < 0.001), and this difference persisted after 2 years (7.58% vs. 7.38% [P < 0.001] and vs. 7.32% [P < 0.001]). Higher BMI SDS was observed in both DKA groups compared with no DKA. The use of AID was associated with lower HbA1c levels compared with other treatment modalities and moderated differences between DKA groups after 2 years of follow-up (P = 0.072).

CONCLUSIONS

Severe and nonsevere DKA at type 1 diabetes diagnosis were both associated with persistently higher HbA1c and higher BMI SDS. AID use diminishes the association of DKA at diagnosis and higher HbA1c over time.

Extracellular(Serum) Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Association with Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Cerebral Edema

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children is associated with acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and the severe risk of diabetic ketoacidosis-related cerebral edema (DKACE). Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in inflammation and tissue remodeling, potentially contributing to these complications. This study explores the role of MMPs as biomarkers in pediatric T1DM patients with DKA and DKACE.

Methods

We conducted a systematic cross-sectional study at Jiangxi Children's Hospital, enrolling 56 pediatric patients with T1DM, categorized into three groups: T1DM without complications, DKA, and DKACE. Serum levels of MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9 were measured through ELISA. Statistical analyses assessed correlations between MMPs, glucose metabolism, and inflammatory markers, evaluating potential biomarker utility in disease characterization.

Results

MMP-3 and MMP-9 levels were significantly elevated in the DKACE group compared to the T1DM and DKA groups, exhibiting strong correlations with decreased pH and bicarbonate levels (both p < 0.001). MMP-2 levels were reduced in DKACE, correlating positively with pH and bicarbonate levels. Post-clinical improvement analyses demonstrated no significant differences in MMP levels between DKA and DKACE groups, suggesting stabilization post-treatment regardless of initial acidosis severity.

Conclusion

The distinct patterns of MMP-3 and MMP-9 elevations in DKACE highlight their potential as biomarkers for identifying and monitoring severe DKA complications. The findings suggest these enzymes play a significant role in cerebral edema pathophysiology, making them viable targets for future therapeutic interventions.

Central venous catheter-related deep vein thrombosis in severe inaugural diabetic ketoacidosis: A four case-report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Type 1 diabetes (T1D), particularly diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), is believed to induce a prothrombotic state, mainly due to activation of the coagulation system, platelets, and relative hypofibrinolysis.

OBSERVATIONS AND DISCUSSION

A central venous catheter (CVC) can be necessary in cases of severe inaugural DKA in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Children with a CVC are at increased risk of thrombosis, particularly before the age of three. Following a literature review and our experience in Toulouse (4 cases) of CVC-related thrombosis, we propose that CVC placement should be avoided as much as possible and alternative venous access should be preferred to minimize the risk of thrombosis.

CONCLUSION

If CVC placement cannot be avoided, preventive anticoagulation should be considered, but further studies are needed to establish a proper protocol.

Analysis of complications related to diabetic ketoacidosis in pediatric patients at a University Hospital: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic ketoacidosis is one of the main complications of type 1 diabetes mellitus and the leading cause of death among children and adolescents with the disease. The objective of this study was to characterize the cases of diabetic ketoacidosis treated in a University Hospital reference in pediatric endocrinology and identify their most frequent complications.

METHODS

A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out, based on the review of medical records of patients aged 0-16 years with a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis treated between January 2016 and August 2020. Insulin therapy was performed subcutaneously as part of the hospital's protocol.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven (77) admissions were analyzed and 55.8 % were diagnosed with a new case of type 1 diabetes. Adolescents (54.5 %) were the most affected. An increase of 90.9 % of cases between 2016 and 2020 was visualized. Severe DKA was more frequent in school-aged children. An increase in the dose of insulin was related to the severity of diabetic ketoacidosis. Hypokalemia was the most frequent complication. Cerebral edema occurred in 11.7 % of cases, and it was the cause of the only death, corresponding to a mortality rate of 1.3 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Rising DKA incidence aligns with global trends, with poor adherence driving cases in previously diagnosed adolescents. High rates of hypokalemia and cerebral edema were found, but with lower mortality, showing the effectiveness of subcutaneous insulin for treatment. Future studies should confirm findings, address adherence issues, and refine hydration, insulin dosing, and monitoring practices to reduce complications.

Marked improvement in HbA1c following introduction of biosimilar insulin to treatment regimen of children and youth with type 1 diabetes in Mali: A randomised controlled trial

AIMS

Evidence on outcomes of treating type 1 diabetes (T1D) with long-acting basal insulins in low-resourced settings is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of switching children and youth with T1D in the low-income country of Mali from human insulin via syringe to long-acting biosimilar insulin glargine delivered by reusable pens combined with short-acting insulin via syringe.

METHODS

A two-group parallel design randomised trial was conducted enrolling 260 youth aged <25 years, diagnosed with T1D for ≥12 months without prior use of analogue insulin. Youth were randomised 1:1 to either continue receiving current therapy or switch to analogue insulin. The primary outcome was HbA1c, collected at baseline and 3-monthly for 12 months.

RESULTS

Primary outcome data were available for 130 (100%) youth in the intervention group and 128 (98.5%) in the control group. Over the 12-month study period, mean HbA1c decreased from 103 to 65 mmol/mol (11.6%-8.1%) (p < 0.001) in the intervention group and from 101 to 93 mmol/mol (11.4% to 10.7%) in the control group (p < 0.01), an absolute difference of 30 mmol/mol (95% CI: -37, -24) (p < 0.001). The proportion of participants with HbA1c ≥130 mmol/mol (≥14%) decreased from 38.5% to 0% in the intervention group, versus 40.6% to 21.9% in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching to a basal-bolus insulin regimen including biosimilar glargine resulted in marked improvements in HbA1c and diabetic ketoacidosis episodes. With relevant training, resources, and support, use of long-acting analogue insulin for treating T1D in Mali was feasible and acceptable to participants and healthcare professionals.

The outcomes of implementing clinical guidelines to manage pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis in emergency department

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes is the most common endocrine health condition among youth. Healthcare professionals must consider evidence-based guidelines in managing children and adolescents with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The current study aims to assess the outcomes of implementing clinical guidelines by the American Diabetes Association to manage DKA among pediatrics in an emergency department in Palestine.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted among 60 children (<12 years old) with type 1 diabetes mellitus with DKA throughout February to May 2021. The children were assessed on arrival and during the next 6 h for implementing the recommended guidelines of DKA management (e.g., fluids and insulin therapy). The assessment included measurement of vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, O2 saturation), PH, HCO3-, and random blood glucose (RBG). A repeated-measure ANOVA was used to detect the difference between outcome measures during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

After implementing the recommended guidelines of DKA management, all vital signs improved significantly in the follow-up period (p < 0.05). Also, PH, HCO3-, and random blood glucose (RBG) were significantly enhanced in the follow-up period (p < 0.05) among children with DKA.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that the recommended DKA management guidelines effectively managed children with DKA in emergency departments. Healthcare professionals should adhere to the guidelines when treating children with DKA.

Review of Subcutaneous Insulin Regimens in the Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Adults and Pediatrics

OBJECTIVE

Summarize the studies evaluating the use of subcutaneous (SQ) insulin in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in adults and pediatrics.

DATA SOURCES

A PubMed literature search was conducted for articles published between 2000 and the end of May 2024 which contained the following terms in their title: (1) subcutaneous, glargine, or basal and (2) ketoa*.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Review articles, guidelines, meta-analysis, commentaries, studies not related to the acute management of DKA, studies evaluating continuous SQ insulin, animal studies, if the time to DKA resolution was not clearly defined, and studies where basal insulin was administered greater than 6 hours after the insulin infusion was started were excluded.

DATA SYNTHESIS

The electronic search identified 58 articles. Following the initial screening 38 articles were excluded and 3 were added after bibliography review. Of the 23 articles assessed for eligibility, 7 were excluded. Sixteen articles were included. Five studies compared SQ rapid/short-acting insulin and intravenous (IV) insulin infusions in adults, 4 compared SQ rapid/short-acting insulin and IV insulin infusions in pediatrics, 4 evaluated IV insulin infusions with or without SQ basal insulin in adults, and 3 evaluated IV insulin infusions with or without SQ basal insulin in pediatrics.

RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE

In comparison with IV insulin infusions, rapid/short-acting SQ insulin regimens were associated with reduced ICU admission rates, hospital length of stay, and hospitalization costs. IV insulin infusion regimens that included a single SQ basal insulin dose upon therapy initiation were associated with reduced concurrent IV insulin infusion durations.

CONCLUSION

Studies reviewed suggest that SQ insulin regimens may be as effective and safe as IV insulin infusions in the management of DKA and are associated with the conservation of resources. Providers may refer to this review when establishing or modifying their DKA management protocols.

Hybrid closed-loop insulin therapy and risk of severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis in young people (aged 2-20 years) with type 1 diabetes: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

The effect of closed-loop insulin delivery on the risk of acute diabetes complications in people with type 1 diabetes is unclear. We investigated whether the rates of severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis are lower with hybrid closed-loop insulin therapy compared with sensor-augmented (open-loop) pump therapy in a large cohort of young people.

METHODS

In this population-based cohort study, we evaluated young people with type 1 diabetes from 250 diabetes centres in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Luxembourg participating in the Diabetes Prospective Follow-up (DPV) initiative. Included participants were aged 2-20 years, with diabetes duration of more than 1 year, and were treated between Jan 1, 2021, and Dec 31, 2023. The primary outcomes were the rates of severe hypoglycaemia and ketoacidosis in people using closed-loop therapy versus open-loop therapy. Key secondary outcomes were differences in HbA1c levels, percentage of time in glucose range of 3·9-10·0 mmol/L, and glycaemic variability. To account for relevant confounders, we applied propensity score inverse probability of treatment weighting considering several baseline characteristics.

FINDINGS

13 922 young people (median age 13·2 years [IQR 10·0 to 16·0]; 51% male) in the DPV database met inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. 7088 used closed-loop therapy and 6834 used open-loop therapy, with a median observation time of 1·6 years [IQR 1·1 to 2·4]. Individuals using closed-loop therapy had a higher rate of ketoacidosis (1·74 per 100 patient-years) than those using open-loop therapy (0·96 per 100 patient-years; incidence rate ratio 1·81 [1·37 to 2·40], p<0·0001) and there was no significant difference between groups in the rate of severe hypoglycaemia (5·59 per 100 patient-years vs 6·63 per 100 patient-years; incidence rate ratio 0·84 [95% CI 0·69 to 1·03], p=0·089). Individuals using closed-loop therapy had a lower rate of hypoglycaemic coma (0·62 per 100 patient-years) compared with individuals using open-loop therapy (0·91 per 100 patient-years; incidence rate ratio 0·68 [95% CI 0·48 to 0·97], p=0·034). Those in the closed-loop therapy group also had a lower HbA1c level (7·34% vs 7·50%; difference -0·16% [95% CI -0·20 to -0·13], p=0·0007), higher percentage of time in target glucose range of 3·9-10·0 mmol/L (64% vs 52%, difference 12% [10 to 14], p<0·0001), and less glycaemic variability (coefficient of variation 35·4% vs 38·3%; difference -2·9% [-3·3 to -2·5], p<0·0001) than those in the open-loop therapy group. The rate of ketoacidosis was particularly high in young people with HbA1c of 8·5% or higher in the closed-loop therapy group (5·25 per 100 patient-years) compared with the open-loop therapy group (1·53 per 100 patient-years; incidence rate ratio 3·43 [95% CI 1·69 to 6·97], p<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery has no significant effect on the rate of severe hypoglycaemia, and is associated with an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, but is associated with a reduced risk of hypoglycaemic coma and improved glycaemia. These findings indicate the need for additional educational measures for the use of closed-loop insulin delivery.

FUNDING

German Center for Diabetes Research, German Diabetes Society, and Robert Koch Institute.

Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis (PDKA) among newly diagnosed diabetic patients at Dilla University Hospital, Dilla, Ethiopia: Prevalence and predictors

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a morbid complication of Type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM), and its occurrence at diagnosis has rarely been studied in Ethiopia, despite the many cases seen in the pediatric population.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to know the prevalence of DKA among patients with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus and identify avoidable risk factors.

METHOD

This institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2018 to December1, 2022. Newly diagnosed T1DM under 15 years were included in the study. DKA and the new diagnosis of type 1 DM were defined based on the 2022 ISPAD and other international guidelines. A data collection form was used to collect sociodemographic and clinical data. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the risk factors.

RESULT

Among the 61 newly diagnosed T1DM pediatric patients admitted, DKA was the initial presentation in 37 patients, accounting for 60.7% of the cases. The mean age at diagnosis was 8 (±3.85) years, with females being more affected. Clinical presentation revealed vomiting accompanied by signs of dehydration (32.4%), with polyuria, polydipsia and weight loss (26.2%) being the most common symptoms. The presence of adequate knowledge of signs and symptoms of DM (AOR = 0.07, 95%CI 0.019-0.0897, P value 0.017) and a family history of DM (AOR = 0.129 95%CI 0.019-0.897, P value 0.039) were protective factors against DKA as the initial diagnosis of DM. Moreover, new-onset type 1 DM without DKA was 1.5 times higher in children from families with a high monthly income (AOR = 1.473, 95% CI 0.679-3.195 p value 0.000) compared to those from families with low income. The presence of an infection prior to DKA (AOR = 11.69,95%CI 1.34-10.1,P value 0.026) was associated with the diagnosis of DKA at the initial presentation of DM.

CONCLUSION

A high number of children present with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at the initial diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM), which is associated with inadequate knowledge of the signs and symptoms of DM as well as the masking effect of concomitant infections in these children. Healthcare professionals should endeavor to suspect and screen children. Continuous awareness creation of DM is encouraged to diagnose diabetes mellitus earlier and to decrease the prevalence of DKA as an initial presentation.

International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2024: Insulin and Adjunctive Treatments in Children and Adolescents with Diabetes

The International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD) guidelines represent a rich repository that serves as the only comprehensive set of clinical recommendations for children, adolescents, and young adults living with diabetes worldwide. This chapter builds on the 2022 ISPAD guidelines, and updates recommendations on the principles of intensive insulin regimens, including more intensive forms of multiple daily injections with new-generation faster-acting and ultra-long-acting insulins; a summary of adjunctive medications used alongside insulin treatment that includes details on pramlintide, metformin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) and sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors; and key considerations with regard to access to insulin and affordability to ensure that all persons with diabetes who need insulin can obtain it without financial hardship.

Lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio upon admission to predict disease progression and ICU admission in adult patients with diabetic ketoacidosis

This study aimed to investigate whether lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) upon admission can predict disease progression and intensive care unit (ICU) admission in adult patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). A single-center retrospective study was conducted, including adult DKA patients admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University between March 2018 and March 2023. Multiple demographic and clinical data were collected from the medical records upon admission and during hospitalization. Subsequently, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score and LCR were calculated based on relevant clinical parameters within 24 h of admission. These indicators were compared among different disease severity groups, and factors related to severe DKA, concurrent acute kidney injury (AKI), and ICU admission were further analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve (AUC), and cut-off value of LCR. A total of 271 adult DKA patients were enrolled and categorized into three groups: mild group (n = 42), moderate group (n = 64), and severe group (n = 165). Significant differences in demographic and clinical data were observed among these groups. Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score, LCR, pH, and bicarbonate (HCO3-) were identified as protective factors for severe DKA. Conversely, SOFA score, neutrophil count (NEUT), serum creatinine (SCr), and glucose (GLU) were risk factors for concurrent AKI. Concurrent AKI and SOFA score were risk factors for ICU admission, while pH was a protective factor. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of LCR to classify adult DKA patients into mild group, severe group, and ICU admission were 0.679, 0.718, and 0.621, respectively, with cut-off value of 212.80, 96.16, and 63.35, sensitivity of 54.8%, 76.4%, and 78.9%, and specificity of 76.0%, 62.4%, and 46.3%. LCR upon admission provides great potential to predict disease progression and ICU admission in adult patients with DKA.

Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: Ongoing Challenges in Care

Diabetic ketoacidosis is the most common acute complication in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, and contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare burden. This review aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of severe diabetic ketoacidosis in pediatric age, including its epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors, complications and emphasizing advances in prevention strategies. Incidence rates vary due to influences from geographic, socioeconomic, cultural and demographic factors. Pathogenesis is linked to insulin deficiency and an excess of counter-regulatory hormones, which disrupt glucose, protein, and lipid metabolism, causing hyperglycemia, ketosis, acidosis, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. According to the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes guidelines, severe diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by a pH < 7.1 or bicarbonate < 5 mmol/L. This condition can lead to a wide range of life-threatening complications, including cerebral edema that represents the leading cause of death. Several prevention strategies, including awareness campaigns, early diagnosis of diabetes, regular monitoring and management, effective insulin therapy, education, access to healthcare and technological assistance, may contribute to reduce the risk of severe diabetic ketoacidosis episodes in children and adolescents.

Impact of early administration of long-acting insulin on ketosis rebound in diabetic ketoacidosis

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening metabolic disorder that can occur with the onset or during follow-up of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Once DKA has been resolved, discontinuing the intravenous insulin infusion may lead to a rebound of hyperglycemia. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate that early administration by an injection of long-acting insulin avoids a ketosis rebound after stopping intravenous insulin.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted in the Femme-Mère-Enfant Hospital. We included patients aged 0 and 18 years, admitted to the intensive care unit and then to pediatric diabetology for DKA between January 2022 and April 2023. We separated patients into two groups depending on the protocol received. For the "old protocol" group, intravenous insulin was stopped when the acidosis was resolved, and before the patient was transferred, subcutaneous insulin injections were given in diabetology. For the "new protocol" group, subcutaneous injections of long-acting and rapid-acting insulin were administered before discontinuing the intravenous infusion in the intensive care unit before transfer.

RESULTS

A total of 58 children were included. 46 patients were managed for inaugural DKA and 12 for DKA decompensating of known T1D. 41 patients received the old protocol, and 17 the new protocol. The incidence of ketosis rebound was lower in the "new protocol" group (41.2 % vs. 75.6 %; p 0.027). There is a significant association between the new protocol and reduced risk of ketosis rebound (OR 0.23, p 0.015). Multivariate analysis adjusted for potential confounding factors doesn't modify these results (OR 0.25, p 0.045).

CONCLUSION

Our study is the first pediatric study suggesting that earlier injection of long-acting insulin after resolution of DKA in children reduces the risk of ketosis rebound.

Effectiveness of Balanced Electrolyte Solution vs Normal Saline in the Resuscitation of Adult Patients with Diabetic Ketoacidosis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Aim and background

Fluid resuscitation is the first-line treatment for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, the optimal choice of resuscitative fluid remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the impact of balanced electrolyte solution (BES) compared to 0.9% sodium chloride (NS) on various physiological and clinical outcomes in adult DKA patients.

Materials and methods

An extensive search of electronic databases, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, was conducted to select studies that directly compared BES and NS in adult DKA patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis included nine studies, comprising both randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies. Combined estimates were expressed as mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The primary outcomes were time to resolution of DKA and length of hospital stay. The secondary outcomes were post-resuscitation chloride and bicarbonate levels and adverse events.

Results

No significant difference was observed between BES and NS in the time to DKA resolution (MD: -1.63; 95% CI: -7.66-4.41; p = 0.60) or length of hospital stay (MD: -0.07; 95% CI: -0.44-0.31; p = 0.73). However, BES resulted in significantly higher post-resuscitation bicarbonate levels (MD: 1.63; 95% CI: 0.86-2.39; p < 0.001) and lower post-resuscitation chloride levels (MD: -2.37; 95% CI: -3.56 to -1.19; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The use of BES is associated with improved post-resuscitation electrolyte balance and preventing hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis in DKA patients. While BES may offer some biochemical advantages, both BES and NS are safe for treating DKA.

How to cite this article

Gupta P, Nasa P, Shahabdeen SM. Effectiveness of Balanced Electrolyte Solution vs Normal Saline in the Resuscitation of Adult Patients with Diabetic Ketoacidosis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Indian J Crit Care Med 2025;29(1):65-74.

Association between osteocalcin and residual β-cell function in children and adolescents newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes: a pivotal study

PURPOSE

This pivotal study aimed to evaluate circulating levels of bone remodeling markers in children and adolescents at the onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Additionally, we assessed their correlation with glucose control, residual β-cell function, and the severity of presentation.

METHODS

In this single-center cross-sectional study, we recruited children and adolescents newly diagnosed with T1D at our tertiary-care Diabetes Centre. Anamnestic, anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical data at T1D diagnosis were collected. Basal and stimulated C-peptide levels were assessed, along with the following bone remodeling biomarkers: osteocalcin (OC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), parathormone (PTH), 25-OH Vitamin D (25OH-D), and the C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX).

RESULTS

We enrolled 29 individuals newly diagnosed with T1D, with a slight male prevalence (51.7%). The mean age was 8.4 ± 3.7 years. A positive correlation between OC and stimulated C-peptide (R = 0.538; p = 0.026) and between PTH and serum HCO3- (R = 0.544; p = 0.025) was found. No other correlations between bone remodeling biomarkers and clinical variables were detected.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed a positive correlation between OC levels and residual β-cell function in children and adolescents at T1D presentation. Further longitudinal studies evaluating OC levels in pediatric subjects with T1D are needed to better understand the complex interaction between bone and glucose metabolisms.

Serum Phosphorus and Hypophosphatemia During Therapy of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children: Single-Center, Retrospective Cohort 2016-2022

OBJECTIVES

To assess factors associated with serum phosphorus (P) and hypophosphatemia in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treated for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort.

SETTING

Community-based PICU in a university-affiliated hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients 1-20 years old with T1DM hospitalized for DKA from July 1, 2016, to July 31, 2022.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We collected age, sex, duration of T1DM, conscious state at presentation, and most recent glycohemoglobin level. P was tested initially and then every 4 hours. Probability of hypophosphatemia and time to hypophosphatemia and hospital length of stay (LOS) were analyzed via binomial and linear mixed-effects regression analyses, respectively. A total of 852 DKA episodes occurred in 365 patients (46.3% female, median age 14.7 yr), of which 158 (18.5%) episodes were new-onset T1DM. Hypophosphatemia developed during 656 of 852 (77%) episodes, including 49 of 852 (5.8%) episodes of severe hypophosphatemia with median (interquartile range) onset 8.0 hours (4.7-11.9 hr) and 12.0 hours (8.1-17.6 hr), respectively, following initiation of therapy. Higher glycohemoglobin was associated with greater odds of hypophosphatemia (odds ratio [OR], 1.22; p < 0.001). However, lower odds of hypophosphatemia were associated with older age (OR, 0.89; p < 0.01), male (OR, 0.11; p = 0.01), longer T1DM duration (OR, 0.87; p < 0.001), and having initial normal conscious state (OR, 0.18; p < 0.01). Older age (3.0%/yr; p = 0.02), T1DM duration (4.1%/yr; p = 0.01), and initial serum P (23.4%/mg/dL; p < 0.001) were associated with later hypophosphatemia. LOS was shorter with increased T1DM duration (3.6%/yr; p < 0.001) and normal conscious state (33.1% shorter; p < 0.001), but longer with increasing glycohemoglobin (4.0%; p < 0.001). All patients survived with normal neurologic function.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher glycohemoglobin was associated with greater odds of hypophosphatemia and longer LOS. Older male, longer duration of T1DM, and conscious at admission were factors associated with lower odds of developing hypophosphatemia and with later onset when it occurred. Hypophosphatemia was associated with longer LOS.

Quantifying the Deficits of Body Water and Monovalent Cations in Hyperglycemic Emergencies

Background/Objectives: Hyperglycemic emergencies cause significant losses of body water, sodium, and potassium. This report presents a method for computing the actual losses of water and monovalent cations in these emergencies. Methods: We developed formulas for computing the losses of water and monovalent cations as a function of the presenting serum sodium and glucose levels, the sum of the concentrations of sodium plus potassium in the lost fluids, and body water at the time of hyperglycemia presentation as measured by bioimpedance or in the initial euglycemic state as estimated by anthropometric formulas. The formulas for computing the losses from hyperglycemia were tested in examples of hyperglycemic episodes. Results: The formulas were tested in two patient groups, those with or without known weight loss during the development of hyperglycemia. In the first group, these formulas were applied to estimate the losses of body water and monovalent cations in (a) a previously published case of a boy with diabetic ketoacidosis and known weight loss who, during treatment not addressing his water deficit, developed severe hypernatremia and (b) a comparison of water loss computed by this new method with the reported average fluid gained during treatment of the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state in a published study. In the second group, the formulas were applied in hypothetical subjects with varying levels of initial body water, serum sodium, and glucose at the time of hyperglycemia and sums of sodium and potassium concentrations in the lost fluids. Conclusions: Losses of body water and monovalent cations, which determine the severity of dehydration and hypovolemia, vary significantly between patients with hyperglycemic emergencies presenting with the same serum glucose and sodium concentrations. These losses can be calculated using estimated or measured body water values. Prospective studies are needed to test this proof-of-concept report.

Hyperchloremia and Prolonged Acidosis During Treatment for Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVES

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is characterized by metabolic acidosis with a high anion gap secondary to ketonemia. Intravenous hydration fluids used in treatment can cause chloride overload, leading to hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis (HMA). The development of HMA can lead to the persistence of acidosis despite the resolution of ketonemia.

METHODS

A total of 178 DKA episodes in 153 patients treated between January 2013 and October 2023 were included in the study. Creatine-based glomerular filtration rate and HbA1c value at admission and venous blood gas parameters (pH, actual bicarbonate, base deficit), anion gap, chloride-corrected bicarbonate, nonchloride base deficit, and sodium and chloride measured at 0, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 hours were evaluated.

RESULTS

Hyperchloremia was detected in 69.3% of participants and developed at a mean of 6.3 (±4.3) hours of treatment. The incidence of hyperchloremia increased with the duration of treatment; the rates were 8.4%, 51.3%, 65%, 76.2%, 75.5%, and 80% at 0, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 hours of treatment, respectively. The group with hyperchloremia had more severe acidosis, a higher HbA1c value, and a longer resolution time. At the 12th hour of treatment, acidosis continued based on pH and HCO 3 levels, whereas the hyperchloremia group exhibited a low anion gap (mean 12.8). At the 6th hour of treatment, the resolution rates were significantly lower in the hyperchloremia group based on the pH and HCO 3 levels but increased when assessed by chloride-corrected HCO 3 and anion gap.

CONCLUSIONS

During treatment of DKA, monitoring anion gap, blood ketones, and Cl - /Na + ratio or using regression equations in addition to routine acid-base parameters may help differentiate DKA from HMA and prevent prolonged intravenous treatment.

Factors Associated With the Severity of Diabetic Ketoacidosis on Admission in Pediatric Intensive Care: A Retrospective Study

Background Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in children with diabetes, often requiring intensive care unit management. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the severity of DKA in infants and children hospitalized in pediatric intensive care. Methodology This retrospective, monocentric, descriptive, analytical study included infants and children aged one month to 17 years who presented with DKA meeting the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes 2022 criteria. The study was conducted at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the International University Hospital Cheikh Khalifa in Casablanca from July 2018 to February 2023. For data analysis, patients were divided into two groups, namely, severe DKA and non-severe DKA. Data analysis was performed using Jamovi software. Results Of the 63 children included, 26 (41.3%) had severe DKA, and 37 (58.7%) had non-severe DKA. The mean age was 8.92 ± 5.18 years, with a sex ratio of 0.97. Statistical analysis revealed a significant clinical difference between DKA severity and the presence of dyspnea at admission (p = 0.004) and drowsiness (p = 0.003). Regarding biological parameters, the study showed that patients with severe DKA had significantly higher white blood cell (WBC) counts (p = 0.013), as well as significantly higher procalcitonin (PCT) levels (p = 0.038) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations (p = 0.011) compared to children admitted with non-severe DKA. No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding age, sex, symptoms, triggering factors, or clinical outcomes. Conclusions The severity of DKA in children is associated with the presence of neurological disturbances and dyspnea at admission, as well as a significant elevation in WBC count, CRP, and PCT.

Retrospective Comparison of Early Versus Late Initiation of Long-Acting Insulin in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients in Diabetic Ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

Determine whether early administration (EA) of long-acting insulin in pediatric diabetic -ketoacidosis (DKA) reduces time to acidosis resolution while maintaining safety when compared with late administration (LA).

METHODS

This retrospective review compared EA (within 4 hours) to LA (4 to 24 hours) of long-acting insulin in DKA management in the pediatric intensive care unit between 2015 and 2022. Admissions were excluded for patients ≥18 years of age, without type 1 diabetes, with insufficient laboratory data, or who did not receive insulin glargine within 24 hours of starting treatment. Primary outcome was resolution of acidosis, measured as time to normalization of serum sodium bicarbonate concentration (>15 mEq/L). Secondary outcomes included hospital and intensive care lengths of stay, and insulin infusion duration. Safety outcomes were hypokalemia, hypoglycemia, and cerebral edema.

RESULTS

Of the 233 admissions evaluated, 51 met inclusion for each group. The median patient age was 11 years, 42% female, and 59% had new-onset diabetes. No difference was found in the median time to acidosis resolution (8.13 hours [EA] and 8.02 hours [LA]; p = 0.4161). Median insulin infusion durations were 16.2 and 17.6 hours for EA and LA, respectively (p = 0.8750). Median hospital stay was 2 days for both groups (p = 0.9068). Hypoglycemia and hypokalemia rates were not significantly different but occurred more often than previously reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Early administration of long-acting insulin in pediatric DKA did not affect acidosis duration or treatment length when compared with late administration. Incidence of hypoglycemia and hypokalemia were similar between groups.

An Evidence-Based Measure to Assess Self-Efficacy Among Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Jordan

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to assess self-efficacy among adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus and to identify its contributing factors using a new measure based on the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes Guidelines: the Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Self-Efficacy Scale (T1DM-SES).

METHOD

A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 161 adolescents ages between 12 and 18 via an online questionnaire survey, including demographic and management-related variables and the 21 items of T1DM-SES.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that adolescents had high self-efficacy levels regarding the basic needs to manage their diabetes and relatively moderate and low levels regarding more sophisticated needs, such as adjusting insulin dose to correct fluctuated glucose levels, covering carbohydrates, and managing ketoacidosis at home. Adolescent females and adolescents who have working mothers or caregivers demonstrated higher levels of self-efficacy, whereas adolescents who have another family member with T1DM reported lower levels.

CONCLUSION

Assessing adolescents' self-efficacy using evidence-based measures is crucial for informing health education plans. There should be a greater focus on acquiring the advanced knowledge and skills necessary for adolescents to manage the constantly evolving challenges of diabetes management. Access to health care and sufficient health insurance coverage that encompasses modern technology are fundamental for the effective management of T1DM.

Evidence-based obstetric guidance in the setting of a global intravenous fluid shortage

Intravenous fluid (IVF) administration is a ubiquitous medical intervention. Although there are clear benefits to IVF in certain obstetric scenarios, IVF is often given in unindicated circumstances; the ongoing IVF shortage highlights an opportunity to reduce unindicated IVF in obstetrics. This document provides evidence-based recommendations to reduce IVF use within general obstetric practice. The three sections address IVF use within (1) antepartum care, (2) intrapartum care, and (3) postpartum care, including postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) risk reduction. Using the GRADE framework, we provide a summary of the available evidence surrounding use of IVF in obstetrics and recommend strategies to reduce IVF. We recommend transitioning intravenous (IV) antibiotics to IV push or oral when possible, discontinuing IVF bolus prior to neuraxial anesthesia or for the treatment of preterm labor, and avoiding unnecessary continuous IVF infusions. There may be further opportunities for fluid conservation with IV medications that could be given intramuscularly. These suggestions for IVF use reduction should be evaluated based on local need and capabilities as well as the characteristics and risk factors of the population. Patients with sepsis, PPH, burns, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hemodynamic instability should not have a reduction in IVF administration as these diagnoses have evidence-based resuscitation guidelines that include IVF. The recommendations presented may be applicable beyond the immediate IVF shortage and should be considered as an area for future research.

Investigating the Risk Factors Associated With Acute Neurologic Dysfunction in Pediatric Hyperglycemic Emergencies on Transport

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify key characteristics of hyperglycemic emergencies in pediatric patients and those at risk for acute neurologic dysfunction during transport.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients during interfacility transport by Ornge, Ontario's critical care transport service, from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2019. Data were extracted from electronic patient care records and included demographic, clinical, and transport-specific variables. Two multiple logistic regression models were utilized to analyze associations between predictor variables and neurologic dysfunction (GCS, <14).

RESULTS

Of the 399 patients included, 24% (n = 95) had a GCS score of <14. Patients with a GCS score of <14 were more acidotic compared with those with a GCS score of ≥14 (median pH, 6.9 [IQR, 6.8-7.1] vs median, pH 7.0 [IQR, 1.0-7.2]; P < 0.001). Higher median corrected sodium for glucose values were observed in patients with a GCS score of <14 compared to those with a GCS score of ≥14 (145.7 mmol/L [IQR, 140.6-149.9 mmol/L] vs 141.7 mmol/L [IQR, 138.3-146.4 mmol/L]; P < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression identified younger age (aOR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.98; P = 0.01), severe acidosis (pH <7.10; aOR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.33-11.62; P = 0.02), and higher creatinine (aOR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01-1.02; P < 0.001) as risk factors for acute neurologic dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal associations between acute neurologic dysfunction, younger age, severe acidosis, and elevated corrected sodium for glucose values in pediatric hyperglycemic emergencies during transport. Education and adherence to guidelines are recommended to improve outcomes in this population.

Identification and Function Analysis of Novel Hypoglycemic and Antioxidant Peptides from Chickpea

Chickpea is rich in protein and has been demonstrated to possess hypoglycaemic effects. However, the specific bioactive ingredients and mechanisms underlying their hypoglycaemic effects remain unclear. In this study, enzymatic hydrolysis and gel permeation chromatography were used to extract chickpea bioactive peptide (CBP) from chickpea protein. One of the products, CBP-75-3, was found to inhibit α-glucosidase (GAA) activity and significantly increase the viability of insulin resistant (IR) cells. Moreover, CBP-75-3 significantly increased the rate of glucose consumption and glycogen synthesis in IR-HepG2 cells. Moreover, CBP-75-3 decreased the levels of malondialdehyde and increased the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. Subsequently, 29 novel bioactive peptides in CBP-75-3 were identified by LC‒MS/MS, and the potential hypoglycaemic targets of these novel bioactive peptides were investigated using molecular docking. Based on the results, the residues of the novel bioactive peptides interact with GAA through hydrogen bonding (especially LLR, FH, RQLPR, KGF and NFQ by binding to the substrate binding pocket or the active centre of GAA), thereby inhibiting GAA activity and laying a foundation for its hypoglycaemic activity. In short, the novel bioactive peptides isolated and identified from chickpea can effectively exert hypoglycaemic effects and increase the antioxidant capacity of IR-HepG2 cells. This study reveals that CBP-75-3, a natural hypoglycaemic ingredient, has potential for applications in functional foods and provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of CBP in the future.

Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Hemoglobin A1c and Height Trends in Latin American Children with Type 1 Diabetes Onset over 3 Years: A Multicenter Study

Objective

To evaluate changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and z-height over 3 years based on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) usage among children with new-onset type 1 diabetes (T1DM) from various Latin American centers.

Study design

Data on z-height, CGM access, and HbA1c (%) were collected for Latin American children aged 6 months to 18 years with T1DM onset from 19 centers in a retrospective analysis of medical records, from 2020 to 2023. A 2-way ANOVA method with repeated measures and multiple regression analyses were performed.

Results

We included 433 children (46.0% female) aged 8.7 ± 3.7 years; 199 (45.9%) used CGM. The mean HbA1c was significantly lower in years 1, 2, and 3 than at baseline in children with CGM, but not those without CGM. The z-height decreased significantly with the years in both groups. However, the CGM users showed a significantly greater height in years 2 and 3 than the nonusers. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that CGM users exhibited a significantly lower incremental area under the curve (AUC) for HbA1c during follow-up than nonusers. Furthermore, a lower incremental AUC for HbA1c was associated with a smaller decremental AUC for z-height (R 2 = 0.19). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that children with CGM were 80% more likely (OR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.1-0.6) to achieve an HbA1c of <7% in the third year of follow-up.

Conclusions

This study reveals a significant association between CGM use and lower HbA1c from the onset of T1DM over a 3-year follow-up in Latin American children. Further prospective studies should be performed to confirm this finding.

Diabetes Awareness Campaigns to Prevent Ketoacidosis at the Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes: Efficacy on Multiple Outcomes and Predictors of Success: A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: In Italy, the incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is still very high (35.7-39.6%), especially in youths. We aimed to determine the efficacy of awareness campaigns to prevent DKA on multiple outcomes and identify success predictors. Methods: We searched electronic databases (Pubmed, Cochrane, and Web of Science) for studies published between 1 August 1990 and 1 August 2024. The review included studies that focused on children under 18 years old, and outcomes were measured by comparing before and after implementing the campaigns in the same area and between areas where interventions took place or not. Results: Of 236 records identified, 15 were eligible for analysis. After campaign implementation, the pooled DKA reduction resulted between 1% and 65.5%, based on the characteristics of the campaigns. A decrease in the rate of acute complications, such as cerebral edema, was reported. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) at onset showed a mean reduction of 0.7-5.1%; C-peptide increased in patients without DKA at diagnosis, and length of hospitalization decreased. Campaign costs were lower than the costs of treating subjects with DKA. Conclusions: This review demonstrated that DKA awareness campaigns effectively reduce DKA incidence and improve other parameters, such as acute complications, HbA1c and C-peptide levels, length of hospitalization, and costs, among youths with T1D. To be effective, campaigns must follow specific principles of target population, modality, and minimal duration, as reported in this review.

Implementation and Outcome of a Protocol-Based Treatment for Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Tertiary Care Pediatric Emergency Department

BACKGROUND

The standardization of clinical practice in emergency treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a prerequisite for improving patient care. For this purpose, a standardized DKA protocol incorporating a two-bag system has been implemented since January 2020 in our center.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the impact of the development and utilization of the standard treatment pathway for DKA on patient outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study involved patients diagnosed with DKA and admitted to the pediatric emergency department (PED). The entire period of the study was from January 2017 to September 2022. Patients with DKA managed before and after implementation of the protocol were compared in terms of clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Out of 145 patients, 77 (53%) patients were in the pre-protocol group, 68 (47%) were in the protocol group. Age, sex, and severity of DKA were similar between the groups. Implementation of the protocol resulted in shorter resolution time of acidosis and ketosis (p = 0.007, p < 0.001, respectively), higher correction rates of bicarbonate and blood ketones (p = 0.003, p < 0.001, respectively), shorter duration of IV insulin treatment (p = 0.008), more appropriate potassium dosage administrating to IV fluids (p < 0.001), lower incidence of hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, and hypoglycemia (p = 0.008, p = 0.002, p = 0.036, respectively), and smaller number of IV bags use (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a protocol-based pathway for DKA involving a two-bag system provided earlier correction of ketoacidosis, decreased the risk of complications, and reduced resource utilization in the PED.

Revisiting the Pattern of Loss of β-Cell Function in Preclinical Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) results from β-cell destruction due to autoimmunity. It has been proposed that β-cell loss is relatively quiescent in the early years after seroconversion to islet antibody positivity (stage 1), with accelerated β-cell loss only developing around 6-18 months prior to clinical diagnosis. This construct implies that immunointervention in this early stage will be of little benefit, since there is little disease activity to modulate. Here, we argue that the apparent lack of progression in early-stage disease may be an artifact of the modality of assessment used. When substantial β-cell function remains, the standard assessment, the oral glucose tolerance test, represents a submaximal stimulus and underestimates the residual function. In contrast, around the time of diagnosis, glucotoxicity exerts a deleterious effect on insulin secretion, giving the impression of disease acceleration. Once glucotoxicity is relieved by insulin therapy, β-cell function partially recovers (the honeymoon effect). However, evidence from recent trials suggests that glucose control has little effect on the underlying disease process. We therefore hypothesize that the autoimmune destruction of β-cells actually progresses at a more or less constant rate through all phases of T1D and that early-stage immunointervention will be both beneficial and desirable.

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Using Quality Improvement to Design and Evaluate an Outpatient Day Treatment Pathway for Pediatric Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Requiring Insulin Initiation

Introduction

Education and management of children with new-onset or established diabetes mellitus (DM) requiring insulin initiation do not always require hospitalization. We developed a pathway for outpatient day treatment of select patients after initial evaluation in the emergency department (ED) at a pediatric, tertiary care academic medical center.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team identified key initial eligibility criteria for outpatient day treatment for insulin initiation, including absence of diabetic ketoacidosis, age ≥3 years, and plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) <1 mmol/L. Electronic medical record reviews and surveys administered to endocrine providers determined exclusions or reasons for nonparticipation. Refinement of the pathway occurred through iterative plan-do-study-act cycles. Statistical process control evaluated the uptake among eligible patients.

Results

We launched the pathway in September 2020. Of 534 patients presenting to the ED with new-onset or established DM requiring insulin initiation in the first 2.5 years, 198 were potentially eligible for day treatment. Of these, 65 children (33%) completed the pathway. One additional patient was hospitalized following Day 1 of education due to newly identified psychosocial stressors. The increase of BOHB cutoff to 1.5 mmol/L and the option of rapid-acting insulin bolus for borderline BOHB resulted in a significant shift in utilization from a mean of 24.4% to 41.1%. Persistent barriers to participation include limited appointment availability, weekend presentation, and patient/family concerns.

Conclusions

Outpatient day treatment was successful for select pediatric patients with new-onset or established DM requiring insulin initiation. However, this approach necessitates flexible resources and supportive patient messaging.

Family History of Diabetes and Clinical Characteristics in Children at Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes-A Swedish Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the prevalence of parental diabetes between children with and without type 1 diabetes (T1D), and to compare clinical characteristics at diagnosis of T1D in children with, versus without, a family history of diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Parental diabetes among children with T1D was compared with a general population cohort. Clinical characteristics were compared by family history of diabetes in parents and grandparents of 3,603 children with T1D using relative risk (RR) and ANOVA.

RESULTS

Children with T1D more often had parents with type 2 diabetes (T2D) (RR 1.88; P < 0.001) than did children without diabetes. Children with T1D and a family history of T2D were more likely to be overweight or obese (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

A family history of T2D and being overweight may contribute to increased risk of T1D.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Diabetic Ketoacidosis Patients Treated in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objectives: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children. Here, we explored the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on the occurrence and severity of DKA in children in southern Croatia. Materials and Methods: The demographics and clinical and laboratory findings of all children and adolescents aged 0-18 years diagnosed with DKA and admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the University Hospital of Split, Croatia from January 2013 to May 2023 were retrospectively collected. The participants were divided into two groups: (1) the pre-pandemic group (presenting before mid-March 2020) and (2) the pandemic group (presenting afterwards). Results: A total of 91 patients were included, 68 in the pre-pandemic and 23 in the pandemic group. The admission rate was similar (<1 patient per month) in both groups. In comparison to pre-pandemic patients, which mostly presented during the summer (52.9%) and winter seasons (23.5%), most pandemic cases occurred in spring (34.8%) and fall (30.4%, p = 0.002). No significant differences between the groups were identified in the severity of DKA, as reflected either by mean pH and median bicarbonate levels or by the proportion of patients with severe DKA. Nevertheless, HbA1c and triglycerides were significantly higher in the pandemic group (12.56% vs. 11.02%, p = 0.002 and 4.95 mmol/L vs. 2.8 mmol/L, p = 0.022, respectively) indicating poorer long-term glycemia. DKA complications were, overall, rare and without significant differences between the groups. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic did not impact overall frequency or severity of DKA in children in southern Croatia. While the seasonal changes in DKA occurrence and a poorer long-term glycemia in pandemic patients may have been influenced by COVID-19 outbreaks and the imposed anti-pandemic measures, further studies are needed to determine if this was a temporary pandemic-related phenomenon or if this trend would persist in the future.

The effect of war and siege on children with diabetes admitted to ayder comprehensive specialized hospital in mekelle, tigray, ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

The armed conflict in Tigray, which spanned from November 2020 to November 2022, along with the accompanying siege, led to the near-total collapse of Tigray's healthcare system. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, the most common chronic condition in children, requires significant lifestyle adjustments, including daily insulin injections, regular glucose monitoring, and dietary modifications; all of which are severely impacted by war and siege. This study compared Type 1 diabetes care for children at the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, during the conflict and siege period with that of the pre-war period. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional survey, analyzing data from September 2019 to August 2020 (pre-war period) and comparing it with data from September 2021 to August 2022 (war and siege period). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were employed, and Pearson's or Spearman's correlation analyses were used to evaluate correlations where appropriate. We identified 143 pediatric patients admitted (56 during the pre-war period and 87 during the war and siege period), with a mean age of 109 months in both periods. During the war and siege, a higher proportion of diabetes admissions were due to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (90%) compared to the pre-war period (75%). In the pre-war period, the most common trigger for DKA was infections (35%), while in the war and siege period, it shifted to malnutrition (47%), infections (46%), lack of access to healthcare facilities (31%), and running out of medicines (24%). Complications such as death, renal failure, cerebral edema, and shock were more prevalent during the war and siege periods. The case fatality rate was significantly higher during the war and siege (9%) compared to the pre-war period (0%), correlating strongly with the severity of DKA, the degree of hypokalemia, the presence of complications, and admission during the war and siege. Our study showed the negative impact of war and siege on diabetes care in children demonstrating a high rate of DKA admissions with increased severity, complications, malnutrition, and case fatality rates. People with diabetes especially type 1 deserve great attention during such a crisis as the lack of insulin could lead to severe complications including death.

Ketone Management in Pediatric Diabetes Centers in the USA: Current Practices and a Call for Improved Standardization

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the leading cause of mortality among youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Guidelines for DKA prevention exist; however, specific guidance about when to check ketones and how to manage youth using insulin pumps and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems is lacking.

METHODS

A 35-item online survey exploring clinical ketone management practices for youth with T1D in the USA was distributed to diabetes healthcare professionals (HCPs). Survey responses, including multiple-choice and Likert scale questions, were summarized and rates of agreement and disagreement (Likert scale 4, 5 vs. 1, 2, 3) are reported.

RESULTS

In total, 123 HCPs (51% physicians, 26% diabetes educators, 19% nurse practitioners) from 47 institutions completed the survey. Seventy percent worked at academic specialty centers. Ninety-seven percent reported >50% continuous glucose monitoring use in their clinic and 72% reported >50% insulin pump use. Although 79% reported having ketone management protocols, the level and duration of hyperglycemia at which ketone monitoring was advised ranged from >200 to 350 mg/dL and from 0 min to >6 h of duration. While 72% had distinct ketone management protocols for pump users, only 29% had specific protocols for AID. Sixty-two percent agreed that DKA due to infusion site failure was a significant problem in their practice, and 70% agreed there was a need to standardize ketone management guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The preventable nature and high incidence of DKA highlight the need to build consensus for clinical ketone management and to develop tools to facilitate management, especially as the use of diabetes technologies continues to increase.

Incidence of Type 1 Diabetes in Children Aged 0-14 Years in Trentino-Alto Adige Region and Determinants of Onset with Ketoacidosis

AIM

To assess the incidence and the temporal trend of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) during the period 2014-2023 in youths aged 0-14 years in the Trentino-Alto Adige region, Italy.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all incident cases of T1D diagnosed at the two Pediatric Diabetes Centers of Bolzano and Trento was matched with diabetes exemptions (No. 344). Demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic status (SES) data at first hospitalization were collected from subjects who agreed to participate (No. 272).

RESULTS

The incidence of T1D was 21.5/100,000 person/years, with a peak of 31.1 in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The mean age at the onset was 8.8 ± 3.9 years. Seventy-nine percent of the subjects were Italians, primarily residents in rural areas, and SES was equally represented. The mean incidence of DKA was 36.9%. The logistic regression analysis showed that the independent characteristics of the patients with DKA were of a younger age and displayed higher glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values. No relation of DKA with seasonality, ethnicity, or first-degree relative (FDR) with T1D or SES was detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed an incidence of T1D in the Trentino-Alto Adige region comparable to other areas in the North of Italy. The DKA rate negatively correlated with age; therefore, targeted prevention educational campaigns to increase awareness are needed.

An "out of the box" approach for prevention of ketoacidosis in youth with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes: combined use of insulin pump and long-acting insulin

BACKGROUND

Poorly controlled adolescents living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and pump failure of insulin delivery leading to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) are still challenging in the western world.

AIM

To investigate the effect of a combination modality of long-acting insulin for basal coverage and a pump for boluses, on the incidence of DKA and glycemic parameters in pediatric and young adults with poorly controlled T1D.

METHODS

This multicenter, observational retrospective study included 55 patients (age range 3-25 years, 52.7% males) who were treated with the combination modality for a median of 18 months [(IQR)12,47], as part of their clinical care. Data were retrieved at initiation of the combined modality, after 6 months, and at last visit.

RESULTS

Cohort's median age at combination modality initiation was 14.5 years [IQR12.4,17.3], and its median HbA1c level was 9.2% [IQR 8.2,10.2]. The main reasons for combination modality initiation were: (a) concern about sustained hyperglycemia on current management in 41.8%, (b) previous DKA episodes in 30.8%, and (c) refusal to wear a pump continuously in 14.6%. The percent of patients experiencing DKA who used the modality till end decreased from 25.4 to 8.8%. The frequency of DKA events per patient month decreased after 6 months from 0.073 (min 0, max 0.5) to 0.020 (min 0, max 0.5), p = 0.01, and at end to 0.016 (min 0, max 0.25), p = 0.007.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination modality of once-daily long-acting insulin and pump for boluses is safe, feasible, and effective in preventing DKA among poorly controlled young people living with T1D, unable or un-willing to use advanced closed pumps.

Automated Insulin Delivery for Young People with Type 1 Diabetes and Elevated A1c

BACKGROUND

Automated insulin delivery is the treatment of choice in adults with type 1 diabetes. Data are needed on the efficacy and safety of automated insulin delivery for children and youth with diabetes and elevated glycated hemoglobin levels.

METHODS

In this multicenter, open-label randomized controlled trial, we assigned patients with type 1 diabetes in a 1:1 ratio either to use an automated insulin delivery system (MiniMed 780G) or to receive usual diabetes care of multiple daily injections or non--automated pump therapy (control). The patients were children and youth (defined as 7 to 25 years of age) with elevated glycemia (glycated hemoglobin ≥8.5% with no upper limit). The primary outcome was the baseline-adjusted between-group difference in glycated hemoglobin at 13 weeks.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients underwent randomization (37 to automated insulin delivery and 43 to control) and all patients completed the trial. At 13 weeks, the mean (±SD) glycated hemoglobin decreased from 10.5±1.9% to 8.1±1.8% in the automated insulin delivery group but remained relatively consistent in the control group, changing from 10.4±1.6% to 10.6±1.8% (baseline-adjusted between-group difference, -2.5 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -3.1 to -1.8; P<0.001). Patients in the automated insulin delivery group spent on average 8.4 hours more in the target glucose range of 70 to 180 mg/dl than those in the control group. One severe hypoglycemia event and two diabetic ketoacidosis events occurred in the control group, with no such events in the automated insulin delivery group.

CONCLUSIONS

In this trial of 80 children and youth with elevated glycated hemoglobin, automated insulin delivery significantly reduced glycated hemoglobin compared with usual diabetes care, without resulting in severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis events. (Funded by Lions Clubs New Zealand District 202F and others; Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12622001454763.).

Presentation and characteristics of children with screen-detected type 1 diabetes: learnings from the ELSA general population pediatric screening study

INTRODUCTION

We describe the identification and management of general population screen-detected type 1 diabetes (T1D) and share learnings for best practice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Children diagnosed with T1D through a general population screening initiative, the EarLy Surveillance for Autoimmune diabetes (ELSA) study, were reviewed and described.Parents provided written, informed consent for inclusion in the case series.

RESULTS

14 children with insulin requiring (stage 3) T1D are described. These cases offer unique insights into the features of screen-detected T1D. T1D is identified sooner through screening programs, characterized by absent/short symptom duration, median presenting glycated hemoglobin 6.6% (49 mmol/mol) and insulin requirements<0.5 units/kg/day. ELSA identified four children at stage 3 and another 4 progressed within 4 months of ELSA completion, including two single seropositive children. Six children developed stage 3 T1D prior to ELSA completion, including two children (14%, n=2/14) with diabetic ketoacidosis prior to confirmed antibody status.

CONCLUSIONS

There are three main learnings from this case series. First, T1D identified through screening is at an earlier stage of its natural history and requires personalized insulin regimens with lower total daily insulin doses. Second, single autoantibody seropositivity can rapidly progress to stage 3. Finally, insulin requirement can manifest at any stage of the T1D screening pathway, and therefore early education around symptom recognition is essential for families participating in screening programs.

Whole Exome Sequencing in Children With Type 1 Diabetes Before Age 6 Years Reveals Insights Into Disease Heterogeneity

Aims: This study is aimed at comparing whole exome sequencing (WES) data with the clinical presentation in children with type 1 diabetes onset ≤ 5 years of age (EOT1D). Methods: WES was performed in 99 unrelated children with EOT1D with subsequent analysis to identify potentially deleterious rare variants in MODY genes. High-resolution HLA class II haplotyping, SNP genotyping, and T1D-genetic risk score (T1D-GRS) were also evaluated. Results: Eight of the ninety-nine EOT1D participants carried a potentially deleterious rare variant in a MODY gene. Rare variants affected five genes: GCK (n = 1), HNF1B (n = 2), HNF4A (n = 1), PDX1 (n = 2), and RFX6 (n = 2). At diagnosis, these children had a mean age of 3.0 years, a mean HbA1c of 10.5%, a detectable C-peptide in 5/8, and a positive islet autoantibody in 6/7. Children with MODY variants tend to exhibit a lower number of pancreatic autoantibodies and a lower fasting C-peptide compared to EOT1D without MODY rare variants. They also carried at least one high-risk DR3-DQ2 or DR4-DQ8 haplotype and exhibited a T1D-GRS similar to the other individuals in the EOT1D cohort, but higher than healthy controls. Conclusions: WES found potentially deleterious rare variants in MODY genes in 8.1% of EOT1D, occurring in the context of a T1D genetic background. Such genetic variants may contribute to disease precipitation by a β-cell dysfunction mechanism. This supports the concept of different endotypes of T1D, and WES at T1D onset may be a prerequisite for the implementation of precision therapies in children with autoimmune diabetes.

An Epidemiological Perspective on New Pediatric Cases of Type 1 Diabetes and Vitamin D Deficiency in South-East Romania: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and the biological profile of children from the southeast of Romania who have been newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and to investigate the potential relationships between vitamin D deficiency and the onset of this disease, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study that included 79 children under the age of 18 who were diagnosed with T1DM at the St. Ioan Galati Children's Emergency Clinical Hospital between 2018 and 2023. Their demographic data (age, sex, and home environment), medical history (family medical history, birth weight, Apgar score, and type of nutrition), and biological parameters, including glycemia, HbA1C, and vitamin D level, were collected. We used advanced statistical methods to compare the levels of vitamin D in the children with T1DM with a control group of nondiabetic children.

RESULTS

The demographic characteristics of new T1DM are a median age of 9 and female/male sex ratio of 1:3, with 50.6% living in urban areas, 59.5% with a normal body mass index, and 74.6% presenting with ketoacidosis. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 52% of diabetic cases compared to 2.53% in the nondiabetic controls.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increasing incidence of pediatric T1DM. Diabetic ketoacidosis was frequently diagnosed as an initial manifestation and has frequently accompanied lower levels of vitamin D. Children with T1DM showed significant vitamin D deficiencies compared to the control group, highlighting the need for the monitoring and supplementation of this vitamin.

Normal Saline Versus Ringer's Lactate for Intravenous Fluid Therapy in Children with Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare normal saline (NS) and ringer's lactate (RL) as intravenous fluid therapy in children with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

METHODS

This was a triple blinded randomized controlled trial conducted in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi from November 2018 to March 2020. The study compared intravenous fluid therapy with ringer's lactate and normal saline in children aged 6 mo to 18 y with DKA as defined by The International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD). The primary objective was comparing the time taken to achieve resolution of acidosis (pH ≥ 7.3) in both groups. Secondary objectives included comparing the proportion of patients that develop acute kidney injury; comparing the time taken for normalization of anion gap and blood glucose; time taken to change the type of fluid; total amount of fluid and insulin administered; and total length of PICU and hospital stay.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were enrolled, with 25 in each arm and all but one achieved the primary outcome. The median age of the patients was 9 (5, 12) y. The time taken for resolution of acidosis in patients treated with NS was 12 (4, 18) h and with RL was 8 (4, 10) h (p = 0.16). The NS group had a significantly higher incidence of hyperchloremia (p < 0.05) and longer PICU stay (p < 0.05). The metabolic profile and incidence of complications were comparable in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Ringer's lactate can safely be considered for the management of pediatric DKA and may be preferred in patients that are at a risk of complications due to hyperchloremia.

Association between partial remission phase in type 1 diabetes and vitamin D receptor Fok1 rs2228570 polymorphism

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the current study was to assess the natural course of partial remission (PR) phase of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and to highlight the putative association between vitamin D receptor (VDR) (Fok1) gene polymorphism and PR phase.

METHODS

Ninety participants with newly diagnosed T1D were followed up for a total of 12 months. The VDR (Fok1) rs2228570 gene polymorphism was genotyped using allelic discrimination (AD) assay.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients (60 %) reached PR with an average duration of 5.63 ± 2.9 months. Among remitters, the frequency of CC "FF" genotype and allelic frequency of C "F" were significantly higher (p<0.001). Furthermore, participants expressing "CC" genotype had earlier onset of PR and spent a significantly longer duration in remission (p<0.001). Younger age (p<0.001; OR 41.6; CI 12.12-142.99), absence of DKA (p<0.001; OR 16, CI 4.36-50.74), higher C-peptide levels (p<0.001; OR 19.55; CI 6.52-58.63), and presence of CC "FF" genotype of VDR (p<0.001; OR 6.74; CI 2.41-18.86) best predicted the overall occurrence of PR.

CONCLUSIONS

Younger age, less extent of metabolic derangements, and expression of a CC "FF" genotype were found to influence the occurrence of PR. Data from the current study showed that the "C" allele could have a protective role on preserving residual β-cell mass and could predict both onset and duration of PR among newly diagnosed T1D. These findings support the growing concept of future tailored precision medicine.

Beyond Infection: Unmasking the Impact of COVID-19 on Diabetes Emergency Trends

Introduction The relationship between COVID-19 and diabetes has been demonstrated in many studies. However, it is thought that the psycho-socioeconomic effects of the pandemic led to a worsening of glycemic control and an increase in diabetes-associated clinical emergencies in diabetic patients without a diagnosis of COVID-19. Objectives We aimed to reveal the change in the frequency of diabetes-related clinical emergencies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and methods The data of the patients requiring endocrinology consultations in Manisa Celal Bayar University Faculty of Medicine Emergency Service between March 2018 and March 2022 were included. In total, 269 consultations were analyzed. The March 2018 - March 2020 period was considered as pre-COVID, and March 2020 - March 2022 as the COVID-19 period. The frequency of diabetes-related conditions between these two periods was compared. Results Compared to the pre-COVID period, there was a significant increase in the frequency of admissions with diabetic ketosis, hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia in the COVID-19 period (p=0.022, p=0.037, p=0.044, and p=0.004 respectively). Although an increase was observed in the frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) cases, no statistical significance was found. When the mortality data of the patients was evaluated, the total number of deaths was seen to increase significantly in the COVID-19 period (p=0.01). It was observed that the ratio of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM)/type 1 DM among DKA patients increased significantly in the COVID-19 period (p=0.001). Conclusions It can be concluded that the increasing trend in diabetic emergencies that started even before the pandemic is exacerbated by COVID-19, especially in patients with poor glycemic control.

Early Onset of Type 1 Diabetes in Kuwait: Distinct Clinical, Metabolic, and Immunological Characteristics

OBJECTIVE

Exploring early-onset diabetes in terms of describing characteristics at time of diagnosis might aid in a better understanding of etiology and may have implications on management and prevention. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of early-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) in Kuwait as well as describe their baseline clinical, biochemical, and immunological characteristics.

METHODS

Medical records of children newly diagnosed with T1D and registered in the Childhood-Onset Diabetes electronic Registry (CODeR) in Kuwait between 2017 and 2022 were reviewed. Early-onset T1D was defined as diagnosis at age younger than 6 years.

RESULTS

2,051 children were registered with new-onset T1D between 2017 and 2022, of which 657 (32.0%) were diagnosed at early onset. There has been a trend of slight increase in the percentage of early-onset T1D after 2020 (15.2%) with a prevalence of 18.4% and 20.2% in 2021 and 2022, respectively (p = 0.056). Age at onset was inversely related to admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (OR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.85, 0.95, p < 0.0001) and was directly related to positive celiac autoimmunity (p = 0.022), higher hemoglobin A1C (p < 0.0001), and C-peptide levels (p < 0.0001). However, age at onset of T1D was inversely related to the higher vitamin D levels (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

These findings reinforce the need for increased attention to be given to study the development of T1D in children of younger age. This in turn will support special management and prevention measures targeted toward this vulnerable age group.

Management of diabetic ketoacidosis in children: Does early insulin glargine help improve outcomes?

BACKGROUND

Rebound hyperglycemia following the resolution of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is common in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes, increasing the risk of recurrent DKA and complicating the transition to subcutaneous insulin. Multiple studies suggest that early administration of long-acting insulin analogs during DKA management safely improves this transition.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether early insulin glargine administration in children with DKA prevents rebound hyperglycemia and recurrent ketosis without increasing the rate of hypoglycemia or hypokalemia.

METHODS

Patients aged <21 years presenting with DKA to Children's Mercy Kansas City between October 2012 and October 2016 were reviewed. They were categorized as Early (>4 h of overlap with intravenous [IV] insulin) and Late (<2 h of overlap) cohorts.

RESULTS

We reviewed 546 DKA admissions (365 Early and 181 Late). Rebound hyperglycemia (>180 mg/dL) was lower in the Early group (66% vs. 85%, p ≤ 0.0001). Hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL) during IV insulin administration was higher in the Early group than in the Late group (27% vs. 19%, p = 0.042). Hypoglycemia within 12 h of IV insulin discontinuation was lower in the Early group (16% vs. 26%, p = 0.012). Recurrent ketosis, hypokalemia, and cerebral edema were not different between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Early glargine administration in pediatric DKA management is safe, decreases the rate of rebound hyperglycemia, and improves the transition to subcutaneous insulin. Hypoglycemia is less frequent following IV insulin discontinuation with early glargine, but the IV insulin rate may need to be reduced to minimize hypoglycemia during IV insulin infusion.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in the First Years of Life - Onset, Initial Treatment, and Early Disease Course

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the onset and the choice of treatment in children with very early onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D).

METHODS

The study included 5,763 patients from the German Diabetes Patient Follow-up registry with onset of T1D in the first 4 years of life from January 2010 - June 2022. The analysis included diabetes-specific parameters, anthropometric data, and mode of treatment at onset, within the first and second year of T1D. Three groups were compared according to age at onset (G1: 223 patients 6-<12 months, G2: 1519 patients 12-<24 months, G3: 4001 patients 24-48 months).

RESULTS

In 12.3% of all cases in childhood and adolescence, the incidence of diabetes in the first 4 years of life was rare. At the onset, clinical status was worse and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) rates were higher in G1 and G2 (52.3% and 46.5%, respectively) compared to G3 (27.3% (p<0.001)). G1 and G2 were significantly more likely to be treated with insulin pump therapy (CSII) 2 years after onset (98.1% and 94.1%, respectively)) compared to G3 (85.8%, p<0.001). Median HbA1c after 2 years did not differ between groups (G1: 7.27% (56.0 mmol/mol), G2: 7.34% (56.7 mmol/mol) and G3: 7.27% (56.0 mmol/mol)) or when comparing CSII vs MDI. The rate of severe hypoglycemia (SH) and DKA during the first 2 years of treatment did not differ among the three groups, ranging from 1.83-2.63/100 patient-years (PY) for DKA and 9.37-24.2/100 PY for SH. Children with T1D under 4 years of age are more likely to be diagnosed with celiac disease but less likely to have thyroiditis than older children with T1DM.

CONCLUSIONS

Young children with T1D had high rates of DKA at onset and were predominantly treated with insulin pump therapy during the first 2 years. The median HbA1c for all three groups was<7.5% (58 mmol/mol) without increased risk of SH or DKA. The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was not associated with lower HbA1c in children under 48 months.

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.

A case series of maturity-onset diabetes of the young highlighting atypical presentations and the implications of genetic diagnosis

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a clinically heterogeneous group of monogenic diabetes characterized by onset at a young age and an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. Notably, MODY accounts for 2%-5% of all diabetes cases, and its distinction from types 1 (T1DM) and 2 (T2DM) diabetes mellitus is often challenging. We report herein the cases of two girls and a boy who presented initially with diabetic ketoacidosis. In view of the strong family history of diabetes in all three of them, the diagnosis of MODY was considered and confirmed by molecular testing. The patient in Case 1 (a 10-year-old girl) had a variation in the HNF1A gene (MODY 3). The patient in Case 2 (a 13-year-old girl) had a variation in the HNF1B gene (MODY 5) and was also clinically diagnosed with HNF1B MODY due to short stature, abnormal renal function, renal cysts, unicornuate uterus, and diabetic ketoacidosis at presentation. The patient in Case 3 (a 14-year-old boy) had a variation in the KCNJ11 gene (MODY 13) and presented with diabetic ketoacidosis; after initially being treated as having T1DM, he developed progressive weight gain, acanthosis nigricans, and decreased requirement of insulin. The patients in Cases 1 and 3 were subsequently treated with oral sulfonylureas and insulin was gradually tapered and interrupted, resulting in drastic improvement in glucose control. The patient in Case 2 remained on insulin, as this is the appropriate management for MODY 5. This case series demonstrates that atypical cases of MODY with ketoacidosis do occur, underscoring the potential for this complication within the phenotypic spectrum of MODY. In patients with atypical presentations, a thorough family history taking may reveal the diagnosis of MODY.

The effect of serum biochemical parameters on clinical prognosis in children presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether diabetes mellitus has a high risk of diabetic ketoacidosis-related complications. Biochemical parameters affect the resolution time of diabetic ketoacidosis.

METHODS

The present study is based on a retrospective evaluation of the records of patients who presented to the Pediatrics Clinic of Adiyaman University Hospital between January 1, 2017, and October 1, 2022, with a diagnosis ofdiabetic ketoacidosis. The demographic characteristics, serum biochemical parameters, blood gas results, and time to transition to subcutaneous insulin therapy were all recorded.

RESULTS

This study included 49 (49%) female and 51 (51%) male patients aged 1-17 years (mean age: 9.05±4.33 years). The average time to clinical improvement of the sample, that is, transition to subcutaneous insulin therapy, was 21.04±7.8 h. An evaluation of the presence of acute kidney injury based on serum urea and creatinine levels and eGFR values revealed no significant effect on the rate of clinical recovery (respective p-values: p=0.076, p=0.494, and p=0.884). A univariate analysis identified blood glucose (p=0.025), blood gas pH (p<0.001), and blood bicarbonate (p=0.004) values as prognostic factors, while a multivariate analysis revealed pH values had an independent and significant effect on the resolution time of diabetic ketoacidosis.

CONCLUSION

Serum glucose, pH, and bicarbonate levels are the most important determinants of clinical prognosis in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. These findings can serve as a guide for clinicians in the follow-up and treatment of such patients.

Diazoxide-related Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State in a Child With Kabuki Syndrome

Diazoxide is a commonly used first-line medication for the treatment of hyperinsulinism. Hyperglycemia may occur with diazoxide use. However, hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) secondary to diazoxide is an exceedingly rare but potentially life-threatening adverse effect. We present a case of a 2-year-old with Kabuki syndrome and hyperinsulinism on diazoxide. She presented with 4 days of fever, respiratory symptoms, and lethargy. She was influenza B positive. Initial workup indicated HHS, with an elevated serum glucose (47.1 mmol/L [847.8 mg/dL]; reference range 3.9-6.0 mmol/L; 70-108 mg/dL), serum osmolality (357 mmol/kg H2O; reference 282-300 mmol/kg H2O) but absent urine ketones and no metabolic acidosis (venous pH 7.34). Her course was complicated by an acute kidney injury. Management in the hospital included discontinuation of diazoxide and intravenous fluid resuscitation, following which hyperglycemia and hyperosmolarity resolved. No insulin therapy was required. She remained normoglycemic without diazoxide for 2 weeks but subsequently required restarting of diazoxide for hypoglycemia. This case highlights the need for early recognition and prompt management of diazoxide-related HHS to reduce negative outcomes. We present the first case report of a child with Kabuki syndrome and hyperinsulinism with diazoxide-induced HHS.