Descriptive study of DKA at Ali–Abad teaching hospital

(Place and time of research: Kabul, 1402 – 1403 Hijri)

Abstract

Background: Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious condition that poses a significant threat to diabetic patients, and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can lead to death. It is an acute complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, decrease in blood pH and elevated ketone bodies. DKA occurs in approximately 5-8 cases per 1000 patients with Type 1 diabetes annually.

The main purpose of research is determine the Frequency & Pattern of DKA at Ali Abad teaching hospital.

Methods: This study is a descriptive Retrospective Case Series conducted at the Aliabad Teaching Hospital's internal medicine department. The study included 48 patients who were diagnosed with Diabetic Ketoacidosis between the 15th of July 1402 and the 10th of July 1403 (Hijri year).

Results: Out of the 48 cases, a higher percentage of women were affected. The most common precipitating factor is infection, Type II diabetes patients were more affected than Type I diabetes patients, and the cause of death is Myocardial infarction, cranial infarction and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

Conclusion: The study found that 9% of 555 diabetic patients admitted to the hospital during the year were diagnosed with DKA.