Diabetic Ketoacidosis in COVID-19: unique concerns and considerations

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Diabetic Ketoacidosis in COVID-19: unique concerns and considerations

While individuals with diabetes appear to be at similar risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection than those without diabetes, they are more likely to suffer severe consequences, including death. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common and potentially lethal acute complication of diabetes arising from a relative insulin deficiency, which occurs more often in those with type 1 diabetes and in the setting of moderate to severe illness. Early reports indicate that among patients with preexisting diabetes, DKA may be a common complication of severe COVID-19 and a poor prognostic sign. This clinical perspective explores the key elements of caring for individuals with DKA during the COVID-19 pandemic through two cases. Topics addressed include diagnosis, triage, and the fundamental principles of treatment with a focus on the importance of characterizing DKA severity and medical complexity to determine the best approach. As discussed, some tenets of DKA management may require flexibility in the setting of COVID-19 due to important public health goals such as preventing transmission to highest risk individuals, reducing health care worker exposure to infected patients and preserving personal protective equipment (PPE). Evidence for alternative treatment strategies is explored with special attention placed on treatment options that may be more relevant during the pandemic including use of subcutaneous insulin therapy. Finally, DKA is often a preventable condition. We include evidence-based strategies and guidance designed to empower clinicians and patients to avoid this serious complication when possible.

Endocrinology and Metabolism: Open Access is a peer reviewed journal which focuses on the publication of current research and developments on the endocrine glands and its secretions with their coordination with metabolism and reproduction. Endocrinology and Metabolism: Open Access aims to function as the global face of endocrinology research. Subject areas: Endocrine glands and hormones, Hormone metabolism, Structure and physiochemical properties, Paediatric Endocrinology, Endocrine pharmacology, Molecular endocrinology, Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrinology, Comparative Endocrinology, Cardiovascular endocrinology, Reproductive endocrinology, Hormonal receptors Signalling mechanisms, Hormone regulated gene expression, Intracellular steroid and lipid metabolism, Bone and mineral metabolism. The journal accepts manuscripts in the form of original research article, review article, short communication, case report, letter-to-the-Editor and Editorials for publication in an open access platform. All the articles published in the journal can be accessed online without any subscription charges and will receive the benefit of extensive worldwide visibility.

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Eliza Grace
Associate Managing Editor
Endocrinology and Metabolism: Open Access
E-Mail: endometabol@emedscholar.com