Update on diagnosis, pathogenesis and management of ketosis-prone Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Clinical presentation and outcomes of care in adults with diabetic ketoacidosis pre-COVID-19 and during-COVID-19 at a tertiary, referral hospital in Nairobi, Kenya

BACKGROUND

Prognosis of DKA has improved over time with the availability of evidence-based protocols and resources. However, in Kenya, there are limited resources for the appropriate diagnosis and management of DKA, mostly limited to tertiary-level referral facilities. This study aimed to review the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of adult patients admitted with DKA and assess differences in these parameters before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of DKA admissions from January 2017 to December 2021. Patient data were retrieved from the medical records department using ICD-10 codes, and individual details were abstracted on clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of DKA. Comparisons were made between pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 durations.

RESULTS

150 patients admitted with DKA were included (n = 48 pre- COVID-19, n = 102 during COVID-19 (n = 23 COVID-19 positive, n = 79 COVID-19 negative)). Median age was 47 years (IQR 33.0, 59.0), median HbA1C was 12.4% [IQR 10.8, 14.6]), and most patients had severe DKA (46%). Most common DKA precipitants were infections (40.7%), newly diagnosed diabetes (33.3%) and missed medication (25.3%). There was a significant difference in pulmonary infections as a DKA precipitant, between the pre- COVID and during COVID-19 pandemic (21.6% during COVID-19 versus 6.3% pre- COVID-19; p = 0.012). Median total insulin dose used was 110.0 units [IQR 76.0, 173.0], and a 100% of patients received basal insulin. Median length of hospital stay was 4.0 days [IQR 3.0, 6.0] and time to DKA resolution was 30.0 h [IQR 24.0, 48.0]. There were 2 deaths (1.3%), none directly attributable to DKA. Severity of DKA significantly differed between pre- COVID-19, COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 negative DKA (52.2% of COVID-19 positive had moderate DKA compared to 26.6% of COVID-19 negative and 22.9% of Pre-COVID-19 (p = 0.006)).

CONCLUSION

Even in developing regions, good outcomes can be achieved with the appropriate facilities for DKA management. Clinician and patient education is necessary to ensure early detection and prompt referral to avoid patients presenting with severe DKA. Exploratory studies are needed to assess reasons for prolonged time to DKA resolution found in this study.

One third of cases of new-onset diabetic ketosis in adults are associated with ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes-A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes was defined by the World Health Organization in 2019. According to the literature, the diagnosis is based on the presence of ketosis, islet autoantibody negativity and preserved insulin secretion. Our meta-analysis assessed the prevalence and clinical characteristics of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes among patients hospitalised with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or ketosis.

METHODS

The systematic search was performed in five main databases as of 15 October 2021 without restrictions. We calculated the pooled prevalence of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (exposed group) within the diabetic population under examination, patients with ketoacidosis or ketosis, to identify the clinical characteristics, and we compared it to type 1 diabetes (the comparator group). The random effects model provided pooled estimates as prevalence, odds ratio and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Eleven articles were eligible for meta-analysis, thus incorporating 2010 patients of various ethnic backgrounds. Among patients presenting with DKA or ketosis at the onset of diabetes, 35% (95% CI: 24%-49%) had ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes. These patients were older (MD = 11.55 years; 95% CI: 5.5-17.6) and had a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) (MD = 5.48 kg/m2 ; 95% CI: 3.25-7.72) than those with type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes accounts for one third of DKA or ketosis at the onset of diabetes in adults. These patients are characterised by islet autoantibody negativity and preserved insulin secretion. They are older and have a higher BMI compared with type 1 diabetes. C-peptide and diabetes-related autoantibody measurement is essential to identify this subgroup among patients with ketosis at the onset of diabetes.

The clinical value of glycosylated hemoglobin level in newly diagnosed ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes

Objective

To evaluate the clinical value of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in newly diagnosed ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (KPD).

Methods

A total of 330 patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2DM) hospitalized in our department with an average age of 48.72 ± 13.07 years old were selected and divided into T2DM group (193 cases) and KPD group (137 cases) according to whether they were combined with ketosis. According to the quartile level of HbA1c, they were divided into group A (HbA1c < 8.90%, 84 cases), group B (8.90%≤HbA1c < 10.70%, 86 cases), group C (10.70%≤HbA1c ≤ 12.40%, 85 cases) and group D (HbA1c > 12.40%, 75 cases). The general clinical features, laboratory indicators and islet function of each group were compared. Spearman correlation analysis was used to explore the correlation between HbA1c and β- Hydroxybutyric acid (β- HB) and islet function. ROC curve was used to analyze the sensitivity and specificity of HbA1c in diagnosing KPD, and the optimal tangent point was obtained.

Results

HbA1c, β-HB, FFA, RBG, insulin dosage, GSP, OGTT (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3h) in KPD group were significantly higher than those in T2DM group (P< 0.001). HDL-C, IRT (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3h), HOMA-β, HOMA-IR, HOMA-IS, ΔC30/ΔG30, AUC insulin were significantly lower than those in T2DM group (P< 0.001). With the increase of HbA1c level, the incidence of ketosis, β-HB, FFA and insulin dosage increased, while IRT (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3h), ΔC30/ΔG30, AUC insulin, HOMA-β and HOMA-IS decreased accordingly (P< 0.001). In all newly diagnosed T2DM patients, Spearman correlation analysis showed that HbA1c was positively correlated with β-HB (r=0.539, P < 0.001), and was negatively correlated with HOMA-β (r=-0.564, P < 0.001), HOMA-IS (r=-0.517, P < 0.01, P < 0.001), HOMA-IR (r=-0.177, P < 0.001), ΔC30/ΔG30 (r=-0.427, P < 0.01) and AUC insulin (r=-0.581, P < 0.001). In ROC curve analysis, the optimal threshold for the diagnosis of KPD was 10.15%, Youden index was 0.616, area under the curve (AUC) was 0.882, sensitivity = 92.70%, specificity = 70.50%.

Conclusion

In newly diagnosed T2DM patients, if HbA1c > 10.15%, it is more likely to develop KPD. Monitoring HbA1c level is conducive to timely detection of high-risk individuals with KPD and taking appropriate measures to prevent the occurrence and development of the disease.

Clinical features, biochemistry, and HLA-DRB1 status in youth-onset type 1 diabetes in Mali

OBJECTIVE

Limited information is available regarding youth-onset diabetes in Mali. We investigated demographic, clinical, biochemical, and genetic features in new diabetes cases in children and adolescents.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study was conducted at Hôpital du Mali in Bamako. A total of 132 recently-diagnosed cases <21 years were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, clinical information, biochemical parameters (blood glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide, glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 (GAD-65) and islet antigen-2 (IA2) autoantibodies) were assessed. DNA was genotyped for HLA-DRB1 using high-resolution genotyping technology.

RESULTS

A total of 130 cases were clinically diagnosed as type 1 diabetes (T1D), one with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and one with secondary diabetes. A total of 66 (50.8%) T1D cases were males and 64 (49.2%) females, with a mean age at diagnosis of 13.8 ± 4.4 years (range 0.8-20.7 years) peak onset of 15 years. 58 (44.6%) presented in diabetic ketoacidosis; with 28 (21.5%) IA2 positive, 76 (58.5%) GAD-65 positive, and 15 (11.5%) positive for both autoantibodies. HLA was also genotyped in 195 controls without diabetes. HLA-DRB1 genotyping of controls and 98 T1D cases revealed that DRB1*03:01, DRB1*04:05, and DRB1*09:01 alleles were predisposing for T1D (odds ratios [ORs]: 2.82, 14.76, and 3.48, p-values: 9.68E-5, 2.26E-10, and 8.36E-4, respectively), while DRB1*15:03 was protective (OR = 0.27; p-value = 1.73E-3). No significant differences were observed between T1D cases with and without GAD-65 and IA2 autoantibodies. Interestingly, mean C-peptide was 3.6 ± 2.7 ng/ml (1.2 ± 0.9 nmol/L) in T1D cases at diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

C-peptide values were higher than expected in those diagnosed as T1D and autoantibody rates lower than in European populations. It is quite possible that some cases have an atypical form of T1D, ketosis-prone T2D, or youth-onset T2D. This study will help guide assessment and individual management of Malian diabetes cases, potentially enabling healthier outcomes.

The management of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults-An updated guideline from the Joint British Diabetes Society for Inpatient Care

This article summarises the Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care guidelines on the management of ketoacidosis; available at https://abcd.care/resource/management-diabetic-ketoacidosis-dka-adults. The document explicitly states that when a person aged 16-18 is under the care of the paediatric team, then the paediatric guideline should be used, and if they are cared for by an adult team, then this guideline should be used. The guideline takes into account new evidence on the use of the previous version of this document, particularly the high prevalence of hypoglycaemia and hypokalaemia, and recommends that when the glucose concentration drops below 14 mmol/L, that de-escalating the insulin infusion rate from 0.1 to 0.05 units/kg/h should be considered. Furthermore, a section has been added to address the recognition that use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of euglycaemic ketoacidosis. The management of ketoacidosis in people with end-stage renal failure or on dialysis is also mentioned. Finally, the algorithms to illustrate the guideline have been updated.

A Pediatric Case of Ketosis-Prone Type 2 Diabetes Requiring Insulin Therapy

In recent years, cases of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or ketosis as the initial manifestation of diabetes with a similar clinical course to that of type 2 diabetes have been reported. This phenotype has been recognized as ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (KPD). Most cases of KPD occur in adults, and the typical clinical course is that patients are often able to wean off insulin therapy after initial treatment. We report a pediatric case of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes requiring insulin therapy with four years of follow-up. Our case suggests that patients with KPD may require strict management, including weight control, compared with patients with typical type 2 diabetes.

Characterizing progressive beta-cell recovery after new-onset DKA in COVID-19 provoked A-β+ KPD (ketosis-prone diabetes): A prospective study from Eastern India

BACKGROUND

Recent literature suggests a bi-directional relationship between COVID-19 infection and diabetes mellitus, with an increasing number of previously normoglycemic adults with COVID-19 being admitted with new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, the possibility of COVID-19 being a potential trigger for A-β + ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) in these patients needs elucidation. Our study aimed at analyzing such a cohort of patients and determining their natural course of β-cell recovery on serial follow-up.

METHODS

After initial screening, n = 42 previously non-diabetic patients with new-onset DKA and RT-PCR positive COVID-19, were included in our ten-month follow-up study. Of these, n = 22 were negative (suspected A-β + KPD) and n = 20 were positive (Type 1A DM) for autoantibodies (GAD/IA-2/ZnT8). Subsequently, n = 19 suspected KPD and n = 18 Type 1A DM patients were followed-up over ten months with serial assessments of clinical, biochemical and β-cell secretion. Amongst the former, n = 15 (79%) patients achieved insulin independence, while n = 4 (21%) continued to require insulin at ten-months follow-up.

RESULTS

On comparison, the suspected KPD patients showed significantly greater BMI, age, Hba1c, IL-6 and worse DKA parameters at presentation. Serial C-peptide estimations demonstrated significant β-cell recovery in KPD group, with complete recovery seen in the 15 patients who became insulin independent on follow-up. Younger age, lower BMI, initial severity of DKA and inflammation (IL-6 levels), along-with reduced 25-hydroxy-Vitamin-D levels were associated with poorer recovery of β-cell secretion at ten-month follow-up amongst the KPD patients, CONCLUSIONS: This is the first prospective study to demonstrate progressive recovery of β-cell secretion in new-onset A-β + KPD provoked by COVID-19 infection in Indian adults, with a distinctly different profile from Type 1A DM. Given their significant potential for β-cell recovery, meticulous follow-up involving C-peptide estimations can help guide treatment and avoid injudicious use of insulin.

Recurrent DKA results in high societal costs - a retrospective study identifying social predictors of recurrence for potential future intervention

Aims

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an emergency with high morbidity and mortality. This study examined patient factors associated with hospitalization for recurrent DKA.

Methods

Characteristics of 265 subjects admitted for DKA at Hennepin County Medical Center between January 2017 and January 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Differences between subjects with a single admission versus multiple were reviewed.

Results

Forty-eight out of 265 patients had recurrent DKA. Risk factors included African American race (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) versus white non-Hispanic = 4.6, 95% CI 1.8–13, p = 0.001) or other race/ethnicity (aOR = 8.6, 2.9–28, p < 0.0001), younger age (aOR 37-52y versus 18-36y = 0.48, 0.19–1.16, p = 0.10; aOR 53-99y versus 18-36y = 0.37, 0.12–0.99, p = 0.05), type 1 diabetes mellitus (aOR = 2.4, 1.1–5.5, p = 0.04), ever homeless (aOR = 2.5, 1.1–5.4, p = 0.03), and drug abuse (aOR = 3.2, 1.3–7.8, p = 0.009). DKA cost a median of $29,981 per admission.

Conclusions

Recurrent DKA is costly, and social determinants are strong predictors of recurrence. This study highlights the need for targeted preventative care programs.

Uncommon forms of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a common condition which all clinicians will encounter in their clinical practice. The most common form is type 2 diabetes followed by type 1 diabetes. However, there are many other atypical forms of diabetes which are important for a clinician to consider as it can impact on the diagnosis and their management.This article focuses on maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY), latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), ketosis-prone diabetes and other secondary forms of diabetes such as pancreatic cancer and haemochromatosis. We briefly describe the key clinical features of these forms of diabetes and their investigations and treatment.

Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Ketosis-Prone Diabetes: The Remission Prone Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the severe acute complications of diabetes. It has long been considered a key clinical characteristic of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) with severe and irreversible deficient insulin levels. Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) has pathophysiology close to T2DM but shows signs and symptoms associated with T1DM. In general, patients with ketosis-prone diabetes display elevated glucose and ketone levels; also, a higher hemoglobin A₁C than conventional T2DM.

OBJECTIVES

The current research aimed to elucidate the clinical presentation and outline a management plan for KPD in the Indian population.

METHODS

The present case series is a descriptive, prospective, and observational case series on six unprovoked cases of KPD. They were managed using the standard protocol of DKA management.

RESULTS

The recruited cases followed a set pattern of very high insulin requirement at diagnosis. On follow-up, the insulin requirement progressively declined, and all of the cases were able to stop insulin therapy after a mean period of four weeks. None of the cases presented any organ damage at diagnosis. There was no recurrence of DKA during the two-year follow-up. All of the cases had normal liver and renal functions. Autoantibodies were negative in all of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Ketosis-prone diabetes is the most under-recognized and under-diagnosed among all types of diabetes. Its recognition is of utmost importance as the approach of its treatment varies widely from that of the conventional type of diabetes. Proper follow-up, especially in unprovoked cases of DKA with obese phenotype, could help elucidate this rare entity of KPD where insulin can be stopped and maintain normoglycemia for a substantial period without insulin.

The first series of cases of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (flatbush diabetes) in Brazilian adults

Ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (KPD) is an emerging form of diabetes mellitus characterized by unprovoked ketoacidosis, absence of autoimmunity and beta-cell dysfunction. The KPD may improve after initial glycemic compensation and evolve to exogenous insulin independence, most cases were observed in populations with African or Hispanic backgrounds. We reviewed the literature on KPD and, to date, only one case of KPD has been described in Brazil's multi-ethnic population. A group of adult Brazilian KPD patients without autoimmunity and insulinopenia was identified for this study. We report a retrospective study of four KPD cases (3 males) evaluated in southeast Brazil, the patients were overweight or obese, age between the third and fifth decades of life, had a family history of type 2 diabetes, hyperglycemia (809.5 ± 344.2 mg/dL), acidosis (pH 7.21 ± 0.07; normal range (nr): 7.35-7.45 and bicarbonate 9.1 ± 6.2; nr: 22-26 mEq/mL), ketonuria (142.5 ± 114.4 mg/dL; nr: absence), absence of glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GAD-65), and beta-cell function reserve (C-peptide 1.19 ± 0.53 ng/mL - nr: 1.1-4.4 ng/mL) on diagnosis. After glycemic compensation, there was increase of C-peptide (2.21 ± 0.41) indicating the recovery of beta-cell function and the time to insulin independence was 7.7 ± 3.5 months. They evolved after the period of glucotoxicity with insulin withdrawal and could be treated with oral antidiabetic therapy. This is the first case series of KPD described in Brazil being characterized by ketoacidosis at diagnosis, absence of autoimmunity, recovery of beta-cell function and insulin independence.

Predictors of mortality in a multiracial urban cohort of persons with type 2 diabetes and novel coronavirus 19

BACKGROUND

Diabetes has been identified as a risk factor for intubation and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We seek to examine the impact of clinical variables such as glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) on mortality and need for intubation, as well as demographic variables such as age, sex, and race on persons with type 2 diabetes and COVID-19.

METHODS

Analyses were conducted on 4413 patients with an International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and COVID-19. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test to compare subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

In this multivariate analysis, male gender, older age, and hyperglycemia at admission were associated with increased mortality and intubation, but this was not seen for race, ethnicity, insurance type, or HbA1c. Based on Kaplan-Meier analysis, having comorbid conditions such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and coronary artery disease was associated with a statistically significant increased risk of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Glycemic levels at admission have a greater impact on health outcomes than HbA1c. Older men and those with comorbid disease are also at greater risk for mortality. Further longitudinal studies need to be done to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on type 2 diabetes.

Temporal patterns of hospitalizations for diabetic ketoacidosis in children and adolescents

Objectives

To examine the temporal patterns of hospitalizations with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in the pediatric population and their associated fiscal impact.

Methods

The Texas Inpatient Public Use Data File was used to identify hospitalizations of state residents aged 1month-19 years with a primary diagnosis of DKA during 2005–2014. Temporal changes of population-adjusted hospitalization rates and hospitalization volumes were examined for the whole cohort and on stratified analyses of sociodemographic attributes. Changes in the aggregate and per-hospitalization charges were assessed overall and on stratified analyses.

Results

There were 24,072 DKA hospitalizations during the study period. The population-adjusted hospitalization rate for the whole cohort increased from 31.3 to 35.9 per 100,000 between 2005–2006 and 2013–2014. Hospitalization volume increased by 30.2% over the same period, driven mainly by males, ethnic minorities, those with Medicaid insurance and uninsured patients. The aggregate hospital charges increased from approximately $69 million to $130 million between 2005–2006 and 2013–2014, with 66% of the rise being due to increased per-hospitalization charges.

Conclusions

There was progressive rise in pediatric DKA hospitalizations over the last decade, with concurrent near-doubling of the associated fiscal footprint. Marked disparities were noted in the increasing hospitalization burden of DKA, born predominantly by racial and ethnic minorities, as well as by the underinsured and the uninsured. Further studies are needed to identify scalable preventive measures to achieve an equitable reduction of pediatric DKA events.

Onset of Ketosis-Prone Diabetes in the Setting of COVID-19 Infection

Diabetic ketoacidosis is typically associated with type I diabetes mellitus, but it can be associated with type II diabetes mellitus under the conditions of extreme stress or as a presenting manifestation of ketosis-prone type II diabetes mellitus. A 38-year-old prediabetic male presented to the emergency room with hyperglycemia six weeks after recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Laboratory results showed severe hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis, positive ketones in urine and blood, and elevated fasting C- peptide level. COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was negative, and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies were positive. The workup was completely unremarkable for acute infection. Hemoglobin A1C increased from 6.1% to 10.8% within six weeks. The mechanism by which COVID-19 infection may trigger the onset of full-blown diabetes mellitus remains unknown. Viral infection may cause the direct destruction of pancreatic beta cells or trigger the changes in the body that induce the state of insulin resistance. Antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may cross-react or interfere with the functioning of endogenous insulin. The association between type II diabetes and COVID-19 infections needs additional investigations to ascertain the exact mechanism by which COVID-19 infection triggers the onset of full-blown diabetes mellitus.

Detection and analysis of glucose metabolism-related genes in childhood diabetes using targeted next-generation sequencing: In pediatric population-a hospital-based study

The aim of the present study was to explore the genetic causes of antibody-negative diabetes and investigate its characteristics. A total of 64 patients with new-onset diabetes (>6 m, <16 y) were identified and their initial clinical characteristics were analyzed. Of which, 32 cases with autoantibody-negative diabetes (male, 16 cases; female, 16 cases) were screened for auto-antibodies, including islet cell antibody, glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody and islet antigen-2, which were negative, and fasting C-peptide was ≥0.3 ng/ml. Peripheral blood DNA was extracted from the subjects and their parents for high-throughput sequencing of glucose metabolism-related genes. The group with the pathogenic variation was used as the experimental group. The control group comprised 32 cases of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Their baseline clinical characteristics were determined and statistically analyzed. Out of the 32 antibody-negative diabetes cases, 21 had possible related mutations. There were 2 HNF1B missense mutations, 1 GCK missense mutation and 1 de novo KCNJ11 missense mutation. GCGR c.118G>A p.G40S was present in patients with type 2 DM (T2DM); the locus is associated with T2DM susceptibility in China. An LIPC frameshift mutation was identified, which had not been previously reported; the gene was found to markedly affect protein function and be associated with glucose and lipid metabolism. It was concluded that children with antibody-negative T1D have monogenic diabetes. The present findings shed light on the etiology and mechanism of antibody-negative diabetes, which will enable the comprehensive analysis of antibody-negative diabetes genotypes and phenotypes and further help improved precision treatment.

Two cases of ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus in Korean adolescents

In recent years, reports of diabetes mellitus (DM) cases that do not fit the traditional classification system have increased in prevalence. While insulin deficiency appears as type 1 DM (T1DM), the new type also has the clinical features of type 2 DM (T2DM); as such, this new type of DM is called ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) and is correlated with findings of severe hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis. To provide a clear, clinical classification of DM, new classification systems are being studied. Among these, the Aβ system demonstrates the highest sensitivity and specificity in predicting clinical features and prognosis. We report 2 cases of KPD in Korean pediatric patients. The first patient was referred while in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and was considered to have T1DM. However, their blood glucose was well-controlled even with small doses of insulin, and the treatment was able to be changed to metformin therapy. The second patient seemed to be a typical case of T2DM because of his obesity and strong family history. However, blood glucose was not well-controlled with a regular diet, and ketosis occurred. After performing a glucagon stimulation test, both patients showed different clinical features that were finally diagnosed as type A-β+ KPD. The rapid and accurate diagnosis of KPD can reduce the duration of inappropriate insulin use and improve patients&apos; quality of life. Further, the treatment of KPD children should be individualized according to each patient's lifestyle to preventing recurrent DKA.

Ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus in an obese adolescent: A case report

RATIONALE

In recent years, there are more new insights into the clinical susceptibility, pathophysiological mechanism, and progression of classification and treatment of ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus (KPDM), which was once described as Idiopathic Type 1 Diabetes, Type 1B Diabetes or Flatbush Diabetes. ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus is still a heterogeneous syndrome reported in African-American or western Sub-Sahara-African, Hispanic descendant, and recently in Asian.

PATIENT CONCERNS

An obese 17-year-old student was admitted to a tertiary referral hospital (teaching hospital), presenting with thirst, polyuria fatigue, and a 9 kg weight loss in the preceding two weeks.

DIAGNOSES

Physical examination showed body mass index (BMI) was 32.77 kg/m, arterial blood gas revealed a pH of 7.31. Serum glucose was 27.8 mmol/L with strong positive uric ketones (++++). Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 13.6%. The glucose disposal ratio (GDR) during the steady-state of euglycemic clamp test was 5.62 mg/kg/min and M value was 2.87 mg/kg/min during hyperglycemic clamp test. Those findings were sufficient to establish a diagnosis of ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus.

INTERVENTIONS

This obese patient with KPDM received intensive insulin therapy and fluids infusion, and during the remainder of hospitalization his insulin requirement was approximately 1.5 U per kilogram of body weight per day. Blood glucose monitoring was rigorous until the diabetic ketoacidosis under control.

OUTCOMES

He achieved the near-nomalglycemic remission uneventfully. At 12-month follow-up, his treatment was adjusted from insulin subcutaneous injection to oral hypoglycemic drugs.

LESSON

The present study of this obese adolescent with negative auto-antibodies but unprovoked diabetic ketoacidosis and partially preserved beta cell functional reserve after the acute of diabetic ketosis suggested that he has the phenotype of "A-β" KPDM. Further study of this syndrome will help illustrate the inadequacy of current classification and targeted therapies.

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of hypertension and metabolic syndrome in newly diagnosed patients with ketosis-onset diabetes: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of hypertension (HTN) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in newly diagnosed diabetes with ketosis-onset.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was adopted in 734 newly diagnosed diabetics including 83 type 1 diabetics with positive islet-associated autoantibodies, 279 ketosis-onset diabetics without islet-associated autoantibodies and 372 non-ketotic type 2 diabetics. The clinical characteristics of HTN and MetS were compared across the three groups, and the risk factors of them were appraised in each group.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HTN and MetS were substantially higher in the ketosis-onset diabetics (34.4% for HTN and 58.8% for MetS) than in the type 1 diabetics (15.7% for HTN, P = 0.004; 25.3% for MetS, P < 0.001), but showed no remarkable difference compared with the type 2 diabetics (42.7% for HTN, P = 0.496; 72.3% for MetS, P = 0.079). Furthermore, the risk factors for both HTN and MetS in the ketosis-onset diabetics resembled those in the type 2 diabetics, but significantly different from those in the type 1 diabetics.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of HTN and MetS in the ketosis-onset diabetics were magnificently higher than in the type 1 diabetics but showed no difference in comparison to the type 2 diabetics. Likewise, the clinical features and risk factors of HTN and MetS in the ketosis-onset diabetes resembled those in the type 2 diabetes but differed from those in the type 1 diabetes. Our findings indicate that ketosis-onset diabetes should be classified into type 2 diabetes rather than idiopathic type 1 diabetes.

SYNDROMES OF KETOSIS-PRONE DIABETES

Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) is a heterogeneous condition characterized by patients who present with diabetic ketoacidosis but lack the phenotype of autoimmune type 1 diabetes. Here I review progress in our understanding of KPD and its place in the expanding universe of "atypical diabetes." I focus on investigations of our collaborative research group at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Washington using a longitudinally followed, heterogeneous, multiethnic cohort of KPD patients. We have identified clinically and pathophysiologically distinct KPD subgroups, separable by the presence or absence of islet autoimmunity and the presence or absence of beta cell functional reserve. The resulting "Aß" classification of KPD accurately predicts long-term glycemic control and insulin dependence. I describe key characteristics of the KPD subgroups, their natural histories, and our investigations into their immunologic, genetic, and metabolic etiologies. These studies serve as a paradigm for the investigation of atypical forms of diabetes.

Evaluation and management of ketosis-prone diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Patients presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) who lack the classic phenotype of autoimmune type 1 diabetes have become increasingly identified in recent decades. This has led to the recognition of heterogeneous syndromes of 'ketosis-prone diabetes' (KPD). Evaluation and optimal management of KPD differs from that of 'typical' type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Awareness of these differences and a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment can improve glycemic control and prevent both acute and chronic complications of diabetes.

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews the Aß classification scheme ('A' for autoantibody status and 'ß' for beta cell functional reserve) which accurately delineates subgroups of KPD, and addresses the relevance of defining these subgroups for clinical outcomes and long-term insulin dependence. Subsequently, the detailed evaluation and management of KPD patients after their index DKA episode is described.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

Among patients presenting with DKA, it is important to diagnose specific subgroups of KPD and not assume that they represent exclusively patients with autoimmune type 1 diabetes. The Aß classification is an accurate aid to diagnosis, and permits optimal management of the subgroups (e.g., insulin treatment for the ß- subgroups; follow-up testing and a range of treatment options for the ß+ subgroups).

Heterogeneous clinical features of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: gender, age, loss of weight and HbA1c

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to observe the clinical features of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with ketosis as the initial symptom, and investigate its differences from clinical features of non-ketotic T2DM patients.

METHODS

A total of 385 T2DM patients treated in our hospital from 2014 to 2017 were selected and divided into ketosis-prone T2DM group and non-ketotic T2DM group. Ketosis-prone T2DM patients refer to DM patients with the urine ketone body++ or above or the blood ketone body ≥1.0 mmol/L when treated. Fasting venous blood was collected from all patients in the early morning at 2 d after admission to detect the liver function, renal function, blood glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin and fasting C-peptide, glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD-Ab) and islet cell antibody (ICA) were also detected, and the 24 h urine specimen was retained to detect the 24 h urine microalbumin excretion rate.

RESULTS

The proportion of male in ketosis-prone T2DM group was significantly higher than that in non-ketotic T2DM group (P<0.01). Patients in ketosis-prone T2DM group was younger than those in non-ketotic T2DM group (P<0.05). The number of days from initial symptom to treatment in ketosis-prone T2DM group was smaller than that in non-ketotic T2DM group (P<0.05). The fasting C-peptide level in ketosis-prone T2DM group was significantly lower than that in non-ketotic T2DM group (P<0.05). The degree of weight loss and level of glycosylated hemoglobin in ketosis-prone T2DM group were significantly higher than those in non-ketotic T2DM group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Ketosis-prone T2DM patients are characterized by lower age at onset, higher proportion of male, shorter duration of disease, poorer islet function, higher blood glucose and more significant weight loss than non-ketotic T2DM patients.

Health Care Utilization and Burden of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the U.S. Over the Past Decade: A Nationwide Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. Although our ability to treat diabetes and its associated complications has significantly improved, presentation with uncontrolled diabetes leading to ketoacidosis remains a significant problem.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We aimed to determine the incidence and costs of hospital admissions associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We reviewed the National Inpatient Sample database for all hospitalizations in which DKA (ICD-9 codes 250.10, 250.11, 250.12, and 250.13) was the principal discharge diagnosis during 2003-2014 and calculated the population incidence by using U.S. census data. Patients with ICD-9 codes for diabetic coma were excluded because the codes do not distinguish between hypoglycemic and DKA-related coma. We then analyzed changes in temporal trends of incidence, length of stay, costs, and in-hospital mortality by using the Cochrane-Armitage test.

RESULTS

There were 1,760,101 primary admissions for DKA during the study period. In-hospital mortality for the cohort was 0.4% (n = 7,031). The total number of hospital discharges with the principal diagnosis of DKA increased from 118,808 in 2003 to 188,965 in 2014 (P < 0.0001). The length of stay significantly decreased from an average of 3.64 days in 2003 to 3.24 days in 2014 (P < 0.01). During this period, the mean hospital charges increased significantly from $18,987 (after adjusting for inflation) per admission in 2003 to $26,566 per admission in 2014. The resulting aggregate charges (i.e., national bill) for diabetes with ketoacidosis increased dramatically from $2.2 billion (after adjusting for inflation) in 2003 to $ 5.1 billion in 2014 (P < 0.001). However, there was a significant reduction in mortality from 611 (0.51%) in 2003 to 620 (0.3%) in 2014 (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis shows that the population incidence for DKA hospitalizations in the U.S. continues to increase, but the mortality from this condition has significantly decreased, indicating advances in early diagnosis and better inpatient care. Despite decreases in the length of stay, the costs of hospitalizations have increased significantly, indicating opportunities for value-based care intervention in this vulnerable population.

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in newly diagnosed patients with ketosis-onset diabetes

AIM

As the prevalence and clinical characteristics of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are still unknown in ketosis-onset diabetes, the present study compared the characteristics of NAFLD in type 1 diabetes (T1D), ketosis-onset and non-ketotic type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed with newly diagnosed Chinese patients with diabetes, including 39 T1D, 165 ketosis-onset and 173 non-ketotic T2D, with 30 non-diabetics included as controls. NAFLD was determined by hepatic ultrasonography, then its clinical features were analyzed and its associated risk factors evaluated.

RESULTS

NAFLD prevalence in patients with ketosis-onset diabetes (61.8%) was significantly higher than in controls (23.3%; P=0.003) and in T1D patients (15.4%; P<0.001). However, there was no difference in prevalence between ketosis-onset and non-ketotic T2D patients (52.6%; P=0.229), although BMI and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) proved to be independent risk factors for the presence of NAFLD in both these groups whereas, in T1D patients, serum uric acid levels were independent risk factors.

CONCLUSION

NAFLD prevalence and risk factors in ketosis-onset diabetes were similar to those in non-ketotic T2D, but different from those in T1D. These data provide further evidence that ketosis-onset diabetes should be classified as a subtype of T2D rather than idiopathic T1D.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis Post Bariatric Surgery

In patients with type 2 diabetes, bariatric surgery can lead to significant improvements in glycemic control and diabetes remission. We present a case of a Hispanic female with type 2 diabetes phenotype who underwent bariatric surgery and post-operatively stopped her insulin therapy due to multiple reasons, including decreased oral intake and concern for hypoglycemia. Ultimately, she developed diabetic ketoacidosis. She does not fit into the classical type 2 diabetes or type 1 diabetes definition but into the heterogeneous subgroup of diabetes called ketosis-prone diabetes.

Severe Hypertriglyceridemia Possibly Masked Acute Pancreatitis and Led to a Difficult Diagnosis in an Obese Patient with Ketoacidosis-onset Type 2 Diabetes

A young obese man with ketoacidosis-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus, associated with severe hypertriglyceridemia, was admitted to a local hospital complaining of abdominal pain. Although the abdominal pain worsened, his serum amylase level remained normal with persistent severe hypertriglyceridemia until the second day of hospitalization. The next day, computed tomography showed severe acute pancreatitis (AP) with serum amylase elevation, while the patient's triglyceride level decreased to 558 mg/dL. He was transferred to our hospital and recovered after intensive care. AP accompanied by diabetic ketoacidosis is not rare but an early diagnosis can be difficult to make due to normal amylase levels in the presence of severe hypertriglyceridemia.

Clinical profile of diabetes at diagnosis among children and adolescents at an endocrine clinic in Ghana

AIM

To determine the clinical features of diabetes in children and adolescents in Ghana.

METHODS

Retrospective review of clinical features of all children and adolescents with new-onset diabetes seen at the paediatric endocrinology clinic of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, from February 2012 to Auguest 2016.

RESULTS

One hundred and six subjects presented with diabetes. Ninety (84.9%) were diagnosed by clinical features and family history as type 1, and 16 (15.1%) type 2. For type 1 subjects, age range at diagnosis was 0.9-19.9 year (y), peak age of onset 12-13 year, and 3.3% were < 5 year, 21.1% 5- < 10 year, 45.6% 10- < 15 year and 30.0% 15- < 20 year. Seventy-one point one percent were female. Common clinical features were polyuria (100%), polydipsia (98.9%), and weight loss (82.2%). Mean BMI SD was -0.54, range -3.84 to 2.47. 60.0% presented in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Nine had infections at onset (skin, abscess, leg ulcer). Mean ± SD HbA1c at diagnosis was 12.7% ± 1.9% (115 ± 21 mmol/mol). Four have since died: Hypoglycaemia (2), recurrent DKA (1), osteosarcoma (1). Two other type 1 cases died of DKA at presentation in emergency before being seen by the paediatric endocrinologist. Crude mortality rate including these 2 cases was 32.2/1000 patient years. Type 2 cases were 81% female, age of onset 9-19 year. Mean BMI SD was 1.49, range -0.87 to 2.61. Forty-three point eight percent presented in DKA. All type 2 cases had acanthosis nigricans. Overall, 9.8% did not have home refrigeration, most using clay pot evaporative cooling for insulin storage.

CONCLUSION

Type 1 occurs with a female preponderance and high DKA rates. Type 2 also occurs. Typology based on clinical features is difficult. Community and professional awareness is warranted.

Clinical characteristics, beta-cell dysfunction and treatment outcomes in patients with A-β+ Ketosis-Prone Diabetes (KPD): The first identified cohort amongst Asian Indians

OBJECTIVE

Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD), an atypical form of diabetes, has emerged as a heterogeneous syndrome in multiple ethnic groups. The objectives of this study were to look into the clinical characteristics of adult Asian Indian patients with recently diagnosed, antibody negative diabetes presenting with unprovoked ketoacidosis (A-β+ KPD) and to determine the natural course of recovery of beta-cell functions on serial follow-up over one year.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Newly diagnosed adult diabetes patients (n=11) with suspected KPD (A-β+) were prospectively studied over a period of 1-year with serial evaluations of clinical, biochemical and beta-cell secretion characteristics. These were compared with a control group (n=23) of KPD (A+β-) (classical Type 1A diabetes) with similar presentation. Beta-cell secretion was assessed by fasting and stimulated C-peptide values after a standard mixed meal challenge. Glycaemic control and treatment outcomes were also documented.

RESULTS

In comparison to the A+β- KPD controls, the A-β+ KPD patients had a significantly older age, higher BMI, stronger family history of type 2 diabetes, more severe ketoacidosis and higher fasting and stimulated C-peptide level at presentation. On serial follow-up, the patients with KPD achieved complete recovery of their beta-cell function with remission from insulin-dependence within 3-4months without further recurrences of DKA.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first reported series of A-β+ KPD from India. The phenotype of Indian A-β+ KPD patients differs from their Western counterparts in that they are relatively younger and leaner, though the male preponderance and natural history of recovery of beta-cell dysfunction bears similarity.

Distinct clinical characteristics and therapeutic modalities for diabetic ketoacidosis in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

Patients with type 1 diabetes often develop diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Reportedly, DKA in type 2 diabetes has higher mortality despite its limited occurrence. The exact clinical characteristics and therapeutic modalities yielding successful outcomes in DKA type 2 diabetes remain unknown.

METHODS

This retrospective study compared the clinical features and detailed treatment of consecutive type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients hospitalized with DKA between January 2001 and December 2014.

RESULTS

We report on 127 patients with type 1 and 74 patients with type 2 diabetes whose DKA was successfully treated. The most frequent precipitating cause for DKA was infectious disease for patients with type 1 diabetes and consumption of sugar-containing beverages for those with type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes patients showed higher mean plasma glucose levels than those with type 1 diabetes (48.4±21.6, vs. 37.1±16.4mmol/l, P<0.01) and higher serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and hemoglobin levels, which normalized after DKA resolution. Compared with type 1 diabetes patients, those with type 2 diabetes required distinctly higher daily total insulin dosage (35.9±37.0U, vs. 20.2±23.3U, P<0.01), larger replacement fluid volumes (4.17±2.69L, vs. 2.29±1.57L, P<0.01) and greater potassium supplementation (23.9±36.5mEq, vs. 11.2±17.9mEq, P<0.01) to resolve DKA and reduce plasma glucose level to ≤16.7mmol/l.

CONCLUSIONS

DKA patients with type 2 diabetes required management with a modified treatment protocol to resolve their profound hyperglycemia and dehydration compared with those with type 1 diabetes.

Hyperketonemia and ketosis increase the risk of complications in type 1 diabetes

Diets that boost ketone production are increasingly used for treating several neurological disorders. Elevation in ketones in most cases is considered favorable, as they provide energy and are efficient in fueling the body's energy needs. Despite all the benefits from ketones, the above normal elevation in the concentration of ketones in the circulation tend to illicit various pathological complications by activating injurious pathways leading to cellular damage. Recent literature demonstrates a plausible link between elevated levels of circulating ketones and oxidative stress, linking hyperketonemia to innumerable morbid conditions. Ketone bodies are produced by the oxidation of fatty acids in the liver as a source of alternative energy that generally occurs in glucose limiting conditions. Regulation of ketogenesis and ketolysis plays an important role in dictating ketone concentrations in the blood. Hyperketonemia is a condition with elevated blood levels of acetoacetate, 3-β-hydroxybutyrate, and acetone. Several physiological and pathological triggers, such as fasting, ketogenic diet, and diabetes cause an accumulation and elevation of circulating ketones. Complications of the brain, kidney, liver, and microvasculature were found to be elevated in diabetic patients who had elevated ketones compared to those diabetics with normal ketone levels. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which hyperketonemia and ketoacidosis cause an increase in redox imbalance and thereby increase the risk of morbidity and mortality in patients.

The evolution of diabetic ketoacidosis: An update of its etiology, pathogenesis and management

The prognosis of diabetic ketoacidosis has undergone incredibly remarkable evolution since the discovery of insulin nearly a century ago. The incidence and economic burden of diabetic ketoacidosis have continued to rise but its mortality has decreased to less than 1% in good centers. Improved outcome is attributable to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease and widespread application of treatment guidelines. In this review, we present the changes that have occurred over the years, highlighting the evidence behind the recommendations that have improved outcome. We begin with a discussion of the precipitants and pathogenesis of DKA as a prelude to understanding the rationale for the recommendations. A brief review of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes, an update relating to the diagnosis of DKA and a future perspective are also provided.

Epidemiology of diabetic ketoacidosis in Arab patients with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review

AIMS

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute and risky complication of type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study is to build the overall rate of DKA in Arab patients with type 1 diabetes in the 22 Arab nations. This is expected to tailor the healthcare approaches in Arab countries where attention is needed to save lives from the devastating consequences of DKA.

METHODS

The study here is a quantitative analysis of the articles indexed in four different scientific literature databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus, from inception to June 2015. Arab patients with type 1 diabetes who presented with DKA have been captured. Key information was possible to extract for patients belong to only 12 Arab countries out of the 22 Arab patients.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies in 12 different Arab countries captured 4,688 type 1 diabetes patients with overall rates of 46.7% patients presented with DKA, ranging from a low of 17% in Egypt to a high of 100% in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia.

CONCLUSION

This is the first descriptive quantitative study to determine the overall DKA rate in 46 years of studies in the Arab world of patients with type 1 diabetes; DKA rates were found to range from 17% to 100% with overall rate of 46.7%.

Clinical profile of diabetic ketoacidosis in tertiary hospitals in China: a multicentre, clinic-based study

AIMS

To evaluate the clinical profile of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis in tertiary hospitals in China.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients hospitalized with diabetic ketoacidosis between 2010 and 2012 was carried out in 15 tertiary hospitals around China. Clinical and laboratory data were collected. Patients were classified based on clinical diagnosis and treatment history. Groups were compared for differences in vital statistics and biochemical profiles at presentation.

RESULTS

The study comprised 643 patients with diabetic ketoacidosis: 308 patients (47.9%) with Type 1 diabetes, 294 patients (45.7%) with Type 2 diabetes and 41 patients (6.4%) with atypical diabetes. Three hundred and eighty-eight diabetic ketoacidosis episodes (60.3%) were in patients with known diabetes. The most common precipitating factor was infection (40.1%), followed by unknown causes (36.9%) and non-compliance with anti-diabetes treatment (16.8%). At presentation, gastrointestinal symptoms and dehydration were more common in the Type 1 diabetes group. For new-onset diabetes, only 74.4% and 55.9% of patients were evaluated for β-cell function and autoantibodies for classification. Only 67% of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis received appropriate fluid therapy and 56% patients with severe acidosis received bicarbonate therapy. The length of hospital stay was 10.0 (7.0-14.0) days. The mortality rate was 1.7%, and was much higher in Type 2 diabetes than that in Type 1 diabetes (3.2% vs. 0.4%, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 and Type 1 diabetes contribute to a similar proportion of cases presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis in China. Admissions with diabetic ketoacidosis are still associated with significant mortality and prolonged hospitalization. The efficiency of diabetic ketoacidosis management needs to be improved by implementing the updated guidelines.

Characteristics of Type 2 Diabetes with Ketosis in Baoshan, Yunnan of China

OBJECTIVES

The study provided data to demonstrate the characteristics of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with ketosis in rural parts of south-west border of China in order to help health professionals with optimizing diabetic care.

METHODS

All hospitalized adult diabetic patients consecutively between January 2011 and July 2015 in Baoshan People's Hospital, Yunnan province of China, were evaluated. T2D with ketosis, ordinary T2D (without ketosis), and type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients were analyzed according to the clinical and biochemical parameters and chronic complications in these subjects.

RESULTS

The prevalence of T2D with ketosis was 12% in the whole study subjects. Overweight and obese patients were predominant (49.1%) in T2D patients with ketosis. The mean HbA1c (13.3 ± 3.1%, P = 0.01), fasting plasma glucose (16.9 ± 6 mmol/L, P < 0.0001), and plasma triglyceride (4.0 ± 4.0 mmol/L, P < 0.0001) in T2D patients with ketosis were significantly higher than ordinary T2D patients without ketosis. Infections were the most common inducements in T2D patients with ketosis. Chronic complications including peripheral neuropathy (34.9%), retinopathy (12.7%), diabetic foot (18.1%), and persistent microalbuminuria (11.7%) were common in T2D patients with ketosis.

CONCLUSIONS

. This study indicated the poor glycemic control in diabetic patients in rural areas of south-west part of China. More efforts were urgently required to popularize public health education and improve medical quality in diabetic treatment in these regions.

THE CLINICAL AND METABOLIC CHARACTERISTICS OF YOUNG-ONSET KETOSIS-PRONE TYPE 2 DIABETES IN CHINA

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes (KPD) in Chinese patients with young-onset diabetes.

METHODS

A total of 238 young diabetic patients were recruited from our inpatient department from January 1, 2012, to December 28, 2014. KPD was defined as diabetes without precipitating illness and with the presence of ketosis or diabetic ketoacidosis in the absence of autoantibodies at the time of diagnosis. We reviewed the clinical characteristics and disease progression of this group of patients.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients fulfilled the criteria for KPD, and the prevalence of patients with KPD was 7.6%. The mean (SD) age of the KPD group at the time of diagnosis of diabetes was 27.6 (4.85) years, and these patients were predominantly male (male to female ratio, 8:1) and had a high proportion of obesity and new-onset diabetes and a strong family history of diabetes. β-Cell function in the KPD group was intermediate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Patients with KPD had the highest levels of glycated hemoglobin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and free fatty acids and the lowest levels of high-density lipoprotein. After 3 to 12 months of follow-up, 17 of 18 patients with KPD (94.4%) were able to discontinue insulin therapy, and 11 patients (61.1%) were managed with diet or exercise alone.

CONCLUSION

KPD patients accounted for 7.6% of the diabetic patients requiring admission to a large urban hospital in China, with an age of onset of diabetes of ≤35 years. These patients are more likely to be male, have abnormal lipid metabolism, and have more reversible β-cell dysfunction.

Male predominance in ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus

The incidence of ketosis-prone diabetes mellitus (KPDM) shows a higher prevalence in men. The clear male predominance of this syndrome and its underlying pathogenesis mechanisms are unclear. KPDM, once described as atypical diabetes mellitus, idiopathetic type 1 diabetes (type 1B diabetes) and flatbush diabetes, is an uncommon form of diabetes characterized by severe reversible insulin deficiency. KPDM was first described and mostly observed in males of African-American descent and recently in Asian populations, including Japanese and Chinese. Patients with KPDM often present acutely with diabetic ketoacidosis without any immunological autoantibody to islet antigens of classic type 1 diabetes but demonstrate clinical and metabolic features of type 2 diabetes. Accumulating data indicated that gender-related body fat distribution, hormonal and genetic factors are associated with the diabetic process and the human glucose homeostasis and metabolism. A controversial question is whether and to what degree those factors contribute to the phenomenon of male predominance in KPDM. The present review focuses on the role of gender hormones and other potential precipitating factors in explaining the male predominance in KPDM patients.

Precipitating factors, outcomes, and recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis at a university hospital in Damascus

AIMS

To study precipitating factors, outcomes, and recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at a University hospital at Damascus, the capital of Syria.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Medical records between 2006 and 2012 were reviewed. One hundred and fifteen admissions for 100 patients with DKA were included. All fulfilled the American Diabetic Association DKA diagnostic criteria.

RESULTS

Of 115 admissions of DKA, there were 92 single admission and 23 recurrent admissions (eight patients). The order of precipitating factors of recurrent DKA or single admissions were the same with different percentage. The first and second factors were infection (74% and 48%) and treatment problems (17% and 24%), respectively. Complications rate was significantly higher in the intensive care unit (41.6%), compared to the ward admissions (14.2%). Overall in-hospital mortality rate was 11.3%. The severity of medical conditions that provoke DKA with aging, not the metabolic complications of hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis, were behind this high mortality rate. Patients who died were significantly (P = 0.004) older than patients who were discharged alive.

CONCLUSION

Results concerning precipitating factor were similar to the results of many other studies. However, mortality rate was higher which might be explained by the severity of underlying precipitating illness.

When to suspect 'funny' diabetes

Diabetes comes in many shapes and forms. It is important for the general physician to recognise when clinical characteristics, response to treatment and associated features suggest an alternative variety of diabetes, over and above the traditional type 1 and type 2 forms which are far more common. Key to these suspicions are taking a clear history of the development of the diabetes and being aware of the family history.

Acylation stimulating protein, complement C3 and lipid metabolism in ketosis-prone diabetic subjects

Background

Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPDM) is new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis without precipitating factors in non-type 1 diabetic patients; after management, some are withdrawn from exogenous insulin, although determining factors remain unclear.

Methods

Twenty KPDM patients and twelve type 1 diabetic patients (T1DM), evaluated at baseline, 12 and 24 months with/without insulin maintenance underwent a standardized mixed-meal tolerance test (MMTT) for 2 h.

Results

At baseline, triglyceride and C3 were higher during MMTT in KPDM vs. T1DM (p<0.0001) with no differences in non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) while Acylation Stimulating Protein (ASP) tended to be higher. Within 12 months, 11 KPDM were withdrawn from insulin treatment (KPDM-ins), while 9 were maintained (KPDM+ins). NEFA was lower in KPDM-ins vs. KPDM+ins at baseline (p = 0.0006), 12 months (p<0.0001) and 24 months (p<0.0001) during MMTT. NEFA in KPDM-ins decreased over 30–120 minutes (p<0.05), but not in KPDM+ins. Overall, C3 was higher in KPDM-ins vs KPDM+ins at 12 months (p = 0.0081) and 24 months (p = 0.0019), while ASP was lower at baseline (p = 0.0024) and 12 months (p = 0.0281), with a decrease in ASP/C3 ratio.

Conclusions

Notwithstanding greater adiposity in KPDM-ins, greater NEFA decreases and lower ASP levels during MMTT suggest better insulin and ASP sensitivity in these patients.

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of lower limb atherosclerotic lesions in newly diagnosed patients with ketosis-onset diabetes: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The clinical features of atherosclerotic lesions in ketosis-onset diabetes are largely absent. We aimed to compare the characteristics of lower limb atherosclerotic lesions among type 1, ketosis-onset and non-ketotic type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed in newly diagnosed Chinese patients with diabetes, including 53 type 1 diabetics with positive islet-associated autoantibodies, 208 ketosis-onset diabetics without islet-associated autoantibodies, and 215 non-ketotic type 2 diabetics. Sixty-two subjects without diabetes were used as control. Femoral intima-media thickness (FIMT), lower limb atherosclerotic plaque and stenosis were evaluated and compared among the four groups based on ultrasonography. The risk factors associated with lower limb atherosclerotic plaque were evaluated via binary logistic regression in patients with diabetes.

RESULTS

After adjusting for age and sex, the prevalence of lower limb plaque in the patients with ketosis-onset diabetes (47.6%) was significantly higher than in the control subjects (25.8%, p = 0.013), and showed a higher trend compared with the patients with type 1 diabetes (39.6%, p = 0.072), but no difference was observed in comparison to the patients with non-ketotic type 2 diabetes (62.3%, p = 0.859). The mean FIMT in the ketosis-onset diabetics (0.73 ± 0.17 mm) was markedly greater than that in the control subjects (0.69 ± 0.13 mm, p = 0.045) after controlling for age and sex, but no significant differences were found between the ketosis-onset diabetics and the type 1 diabetics (0.71 ± 0.16 mm, p = 0.373), and the non-ketotic type 2 diabetics (0.80 ± 0.22 mm, p = 0.280), respectively. Age and FIMT were independent risk factors for the presence of lower limb plaque in both the ketosis-onset and non-ketotic type 2 diabetic patients, while sex and age in the type 1 diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence and risk of lower limb atherosclerotic plaque in the ketosis-onset diabetes were remarkably higher than in the control subjects without diabetes. The features and risk factors of lower limb atherosclerotic lesions in the ketosis-onset diabetes resembled those in the non-ketotic type 2 diabetes, but different from those in the type 1 diabetes. Our findings provide further evidences to support the classification of ketosis-onset diabetes as a subtype of type 2 diabetes rather than idiopathic type 1 diabetes.

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) are potentially fatal hyperglycemic crises that occur as acute complications of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The authors provide a review of the current epidemiology, precipitating factors, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment of DKA and HHS. The discovery of insulin in 1921 changed the life expectancy of patients with diabetes mellitus dramatically. Today, almost a century later, DKA and HHS remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality across different countries, ages, races, and socioeconomic groups and a significant economic burden for society.

Management of the hospitalized patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) have minimal to absent pancreatic β-cell function and rely on the exogenous delivery of insulin to obtain adequate and life-sustaining glucose homeostasis. Maintaining glycemic control is challenging in hospitalized patients with T1DM, as insulin requirements are influenced by the presence of acute medical or surgical conditions, as well as altered nutritional intake. The risks of hyperglycemia, ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, and glycemic variability are increased in hospitalized patients with T1DM. Diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycemia are the 2 most common emergency conditions that account for the majority of hospital admissions in patients with T1DM. The association between hyperglycemia and increased risk of complications and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is well established; however, the impact of glycemic control on clinical outcomes has not been determined in patients with T1DM who present without ketoacidosis. To decrease complications associated with insulin therapy, health care professionals must be well versed in the use of insulin because it is a common source of medication error. For non-critically ill, hospitalized patients, subcutaneous insulin given to cover basal and prandial needs instead of sliding scale is the preferred method of insulin dosing. Protocols are available for initiating and titrating insulin doses, as well as for transitioning from an insulin infusion to a subcutaneous regimen. In our review, we identify and discuss special considerations related to inpatient glycemic control of non-ketotic patients with T1DM. Additionally, point differences and similarities associated with the management of patients with T2DM are discussed.

Unconsciousness and sedation as precipitating factors of diabetic ketoacidosis

The aim of this study was to identify medico-legal situations characterized by increased vitreous glucose concentrations, potentially lethal blood 3-hydroxybutyrate levels and conditions that could either incapacitate or lead to death on their own. The above was investigated in order to verify whether prolonged states of unconsciousness may play a role in precipitating diabetic ketoacidosis. Six groups of medico-legal situations (corresponding to 206 autopsy cases) were identified. Among these, three cases were characterized by pathologically increased vitreous glucose and blood 3-hydroxybutyrate levels. In one case diabetic ketoacidosis coexisted with underlying features that might have potentially incapacitated or lead to death on their own, whereas in two cases it corresponded with potentially lethal or lethal drug concentrations. The results of this study highlight the usefulness of systematically performing biochemistry in order to identify diabetic ketoacidosis-related deaths, even when autopsy and toxicology results provide apparently conclusive findings.

Characteristics of patients with ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) presenting with acute pancreatitis: implications for the natural history and etiology of a KPD subgroup

OBJECTIVE

Reports of concomitant diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and acute pancreatitis (AP) are lacking among emerging forms of diabetes. This longitudinal study characterized ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) in patients presenting with concomitant AP and DKA.

METHODS

Multi-ethnic KPD patients (N = 755) were followed prospectively for 1 year from the time of index DKA using repeated metabolic and beta cell functional reserve measures. Baseline and longitudinal characteristics were compared between KPD patients whose index DKA was associated with (n = 54) or without (n = 701) AP.

RESULTS

The AP group had significantly higher baseline serum amylase, lipase, and triglyceride levels and significantly lower bicarbonate levels than the non-AP group. AP patients had significantly greater C-peptide area-under-the-curve with glucagon stimulation shortly after the index DKA, and higher fasting C-peptide (FCP) levels 6 to 12 months later. Using the validated "Aβ" KPD classification, 85% of AP patients had β+ status (preserved beta cell functional reserve), compared to 60% of non-AP patients (P = .04). Multivariate analysis revealed that among the β+ KPD subgroup with an identifiable precipitating factor for DKA ("provoked" DKA), patients with AP had worse long-term glycemic outcomes than patients whose DKA was associated with other factors.

CONCLUSION

Despite greater clinical severity at presentation, KPD patients with AP have better preserved beta cell function than those without AP. β+ KPD patients presenting with AP have worse long-term glycemic control than those with other causes of provoked DKA. Factors other than beta cell function negatively impact glycemic control in KPD patients presenting with AP.

Correlation between peripheral white blood cell counts and hyperglycemic emergencies

OBJECTIVE

To determine the correlation between differential leukocyte counts and hyperglycemic emergencies.

METHODS

Fifty patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), 50 patients with diabetic ketosis (DK), 50 non-DK diabetic patients with stable glycemic control, and 50 normal controls were enrolled. Their total and differential leukocyte counts were measured and evaluated at admission and after treatment.

RESULTS

The patients with DKA and DK had higher plasma glucose levels (20.84±6.73 mmol/L, 15.55±2.6 mmol/L, respectively) and more median leukocytes (13325/mm(3) and 6595/mm(3), respectively) and median neutrophils (11124 /mm(3) and 4125/mm(3), respectively) but fewer median eosinophils (28/mm(3) and 72/mm(3), respectively) compared to non-DK and control groups (all p < 0.05). Acute infection increased the elevating extent. The median leukocyte counts in DK and non-DK patients (6595/mm(3) and 6008/mm(3), respectively) were within the normal range. The counts of total leukocytes and neutrophils were significantly higher but eosinophils lower in severe DKA cases than in mild/moderate cases (p < 0.05). When the DKA and DK and infection resolved, total leukocytes and neutrophils fell, but eosinophils increased. The counts of total leukocytes, neutrophils, and monocytes were negatively correlated with arterial pH levels (r = -0.515, r = -0.510, r = -0.517, all p < 0.001, respectively) and positively correlated with plasma glucose levels (r = 0.722, r = 0.733, r = 0.632, all p < 0.05, respectively) in DKA patients. The arterial pH level was the most significant factor affecting total leukocytes in DKA (β = 0.467, p = 0.003). The diagnosis analysis showed that higher total leukocyte and neutrophil counts and lower eosinophil counts had a significant ability to reflect the presence of hyperglycemic emergencies.

CONCLUSION

More total leukocytes and neutrophils but fewer eosinophils was significantly correlated with DKA and DK. Leukocyte counts can add valuable information to reflect the presence of hyperglycemic crisis and acute infection.