Adherence to the 2015 and 2020 British Society of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes guidelines and outcomes in critically ill children with diabetic ketoacidosis: a retrospective cohort study

Fluid therapy in diabetic ketoacidosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To evaluate recent evidence (2021-2023) on fluid therapy in diabetic ketoacidosis. Key evidence gaps which require generation of new evidence are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Balanced crystalloid solutions, compared to the commonly recommended and used 0.9% sodium chloride solution (saline), may result in better outcomes for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, including faster resolution of acidosis, less hyperchloremia and shorter hospital length of stay. Upcoming results from randomized trials may provide definitive evidence on the use of balanced crystalloid solutions in diabetic ketoacidosis. Evidence remains scarce or conflicting for the use of "two-bag" compared to conventional "one-bag" fluid, and rates of fluid administration, especially for adult patients. In children, concerns about cerebral oedema from faster fluid administration rates have not been demonstrated in cohort studies nor randomized trials.

SUMMARY

Fluid therapy is a key aspect of diabetic ketoacidosis management, with important evidence gaps persisting for several aspects of management despite recent evidence.