[Factors associated with childhood diabetes manifesting as ketoacidosis and its severity]

N Blanc1, N Lucidarme, N Tubiana-Rufi

  • 1Service d'endocrinologie et de diabétologie, hôpital Robert-Debré, AP-HP, 48, boulevard Sérurier, 75019, Paris, France.

Insights

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children is often diagnosed late in France. Younger children and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are at higher risk, highlighting the need for better physician awareness and healthcare access.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Metabolic Disorders
  • Public Health

Context:

  • Type 1 diabetes diagnosis in French children frequently occurs at the stage of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
  • DKA at diagnosis poses significant health risks for pediatric patients.
  • Understanding associated factors is crucial for early detection and prevention.

Purpose:

  • To identify factors associated with the occurrence and severity of DKA at diagnosis in children with Type 1 diabetes.
  • To investigate the role of age, family history, socioeconomic status, and prior misdiagnosis in DKA presentation.
  • To assess the utilization of diagnostic tools like urine strips in pre-diagnosis evaluations.

Summary:

  • A prospective study of 72 children revealed younger age and lower socioeconomic status are linked to DKA and severe DKA.
  • Misdiagnosis was more common in children with DKA, particularly severe cases and those from low-income families.
  • Underutilization of urine glucose and ketone strips was noted in pre-admission assessments.

Impact:

  • Findings underscore the necessity of educating physicians on recognizing early diabetes symptoms to prevent DKA.
  • Improving healthcare access for lower socioeconomic families can mitigate risks associated with severe DKA.
  • Reducing DKA incidence at diagnosis is a critical public health goal for pediatric diabetes management.
Abstract

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