THU386 Non-diabetic Ketoacidosis As A Rare Complication Of Colitis And Gastritis

Disclosure: J. Bosques-Lorenzo: None. J.J. Irizarry-Garcia: None. J. Baez-Torres: None. J. Colon-Castellano: None. Background: Starvation ketoacidosis is a rare cause of metabolic acidosis that is often under-recognized. To our knowledge, no cases of starvation ketoacidosis secondary to colitis and gastritis have been reported. Clinical Case: A 91 y/o male presented to the ER with nausea, vomiting, left lower quadrant abdominal pain, and anorexia that progressed for the previous two days. Physical examination was remarkable for a fragile man, acutely over chronically ill, with reduced skin turgor, dry oral mucosa, but a benign abdominal examination. Vitals signs upon arrival were stable. Basic laboratories showed hypoglycemia at 64 mg/dL (70 - 99 mg/dL), low CO2 17.7 mEq/dL (24 -32 mEq/dL), Na 137 mEq/dL (135 - 145 mEq/dL), Cl 94 mEq/dL (100- 110 mEq/dL). High anion gap metabolic acidosis was demonstrated (25 mEq/L). Renal function was preserved and within the patient's baseline, lactic acidosis was ruled out with normal levels in the laboratory, and CBC was negative for leukocytosis. Patient denied alcohol ingestion upon questioning. There were no suspected infectious foci. Abdomino-pelvic CT scan with oral contrast demonstrated colonic, rectal, and gastric inflammation. Case reevaluation and assessment of the data and history of present illness, led to B-hydroxybutyrate measurement. Surprisingly, ketones levels came back markedly elevated at confirming starvation ketoacidosis in the setting of colitis and gastritis. Patient was treated with aggressive intravenous fluids with normal saline for the first 24 hours, IV glucose to correct hypoglycemia, electrolytes were replaced as needed, and stomach antacids for symptomatic relief of abdominal discomfort. We slowly progressed diet as tolerated and electrolytes were carefully monitored for refeeding syndrome. Few days later the patient was discharged home with full resolution of symptoms. Conclusion: Metabolic acidosis secondary to ketoacidosis is mostly visualized to be exclusive for diabetic patients, leading to under-recognition of starvation ketoacidosis. This is the first case of starvation ketoacidosis secondary to colitis and gastritis. Understanding its association can lead to prompt recognition and treatment, especially in the non-diabetic population. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023