SAT-LB118 Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes. It is characterized by the triad of hyperglycemia (>250mg/dL), high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA), and ketonemia. Rarely, it would present with normal or mildly increased glucose levels (<200mg/dL) making it a diagnostic challenge. We present a case of euglycemic DKA in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Case Presentation A 77-year-old woman living in a nursing home with a history of T2DM treated with insulin glargine, but for the past three days refused medications with decreased caloric intake. There were no new medications or ingestion of alcohol or toxic substances. She then developed worsening altered mental status hence admission to the hospital. Her vital signs were within normal limits. Physical examination revealed no abdominal tenderness. Initial laboratory studies showed glucose 83 mg/dL, bicarbonate 10 mmol/L, and anion gap 23 meq/L. Urinalysis significant with trace ketones. The following day, further work-up was done remarkable with beta-hydroxybutyrate 8.3 mmol/L, lactic acid 0.8 mmol/L, and toxicology panel negative. Arterial blood gas showed pH 7.137, pCO2 14 mmHg, and bicarbonate 4.8 mmol/L. DKA protocol was initiated and she was treated with insulin drip, bicarbonate drip, and intravenous fluid administration with D5W. After two days, DKA resolved and was subsequently transitioned to subcutaneous insulin. Discussion Similar to the findings of Burge et al, our case showed that decreased caloric intake predisposes patients with diabetes mellitus to euglycemic DKA during periods of insulin deficiency. A proposed mechanism for the accelerated ketosis is due to the effects of elevated levels of glucagon or catecholamines on lipolysis. Other causes of euglycemic DKA include pregnancy, heavy alcohol use, SGLT2 inhibitors, cocaine abuse, pancreatitis, sepsis, and chronic liver disease. It is also important to rule out other causes of HAGMA. In our case, although she has decreased caloric intake, starvation ketoacidosis usually leads to serum bicarbonate levels >18mmol/L. Management is similar to DKA but important difference is the dextrose administration to prevent hypoglycemia. Conclusion Euglycemic DKA is a medical emergency that may be overlooked as patients present without marked hyperglycemia. Physicians should have a high suspicion as this may result in delayed management and potential adverse metabolic consequences.