Differences between hyperglycemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome and diabetic ketoacidosis

Abstract

Since high blood glucose levels might result from inadequate insulin levels, diabetic ketoacidosis is more common in those with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Diabetic ketoacidosis develops only when there is insufficient insulin in the body to convert blood sugar into energy. The liver then uses the acids created by this process, known as ketones, to breakdown fat for energy. Osmotic diuresis, which results in significant amounts of urine production and volume depletion, as well as dehydration, occurs when an excessive amount of glucose enters the renal tubules of an individual with diabetes. Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus can be more likely to causehyperglycemichyperosmolarnon-ketoticsyndrome.Moreoftenthannot,peoplewithnon-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus who do not have their diabetes under control will experience hyperglycemic and hyperosmolar non-ketoticsyndrome.Themajorityofcasesofhyperglycemichyperosmolarnon-ketoticsyndromeoccurinpeople with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus who also have another condition that reduces fluid intake.