Publication:

DKA as initial presentation in children with Type 1 diabetes mellitus-risk factors: a case control study

Background Diabetic keto acidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of pediatric diabetic patients, which leads to increased morbidity and mortality in children. Objective of the present study was to assess the risk factors associated of DKA for initial presentation among pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients and its poor outcome.

Methods A case control study was designed and conducted at the Institute of Child Health and Hospital for children, Madras Medical College, Chennai from February 2013 to February 2015. All children admitted with new onset T1DM either with or without DKA were enrolled for this study.

Results Out of 72 cases of T1DM, 47 children with DKA were considered as cases and 25 children without DKA were considered as controls. On comparing both the groups Age, gender, place of residence, BMI were similar .Major risk factors for presentation as DKA were lack of family history of diabetes, shorter duration of illness and delayed diagnosis in the form of higher number of medical visits prior to DKA diagnosis. Six among 47 DKA died while none in control group died.

Conclusions Short duration of illness and missing the diagnosis was significantly associated with initial presentation as DKA among children with Type 1 diabetes.