[Age-related features of the development and course of diabetic ketoacidosis]

Analysis of the causes of development, clinical features of and treatment strategy in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in 457 diabetics of various age groups (16-39, 40-60, over 60) has revealed a more grave course of this condition in old patients. This may be explained largely by a combination of diabetes mellitus with coronary disease or brain ischemia, that impede timely detection of DKA, this resulting in delayed hospitalization and deterioration of the vital prognosis.