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Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in children: case report and review of the literature
Iraj Shahramian1, Pouya Ostad Rahimi1, Sepideh Radvar2
1Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.
Insights
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is a rare but serious emergency in children, often linked to type 1 diabetes. Prompt treatment with fluids and insulin can lead to recovery, highlighting the need for physician awareness.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is a rare, life-threatening emergency in children.
- It is characterized by severe hyperglycemia and hyperosmolarity, with minimal ketosis.
- The prevalence of HHS in pediatric populations is increasing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of severe HHS in a 9-year-old boy with type 1 diabetes.
- To highlight the clinical manifestations and management of HHS in children.
- To emphasize the importance of differentiating HHS from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 9-year-old male with type 1 diabetes presenting with severe HHS.
- Initial assessment included serum glucose, osmolarity, and evaluation for complications.
- Management involved invasive fluid resuscitation and insulin administration.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with a serum glucose level of 1600 mg/dL and multiple HHS complications.
- Complications included decreased consciousness, hypovolemic shock, and acute kidney injury.
- The patient showed a positive response to treatment and was discharged in stable condition.
Conclusions:
- HHS is an increasing concern in pediatric type 1 diabetes.
- Early recognition and prompt management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Physicians must be vigilant for unusual HHS presentations in children and distinguish it from DKA.
Abstract:
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) is a rare complication in children and a life-threatening emergency that presents with a significant increase in blood sugar and hyperosmolarity with or without low ketosis. This study reports the case of a 9-year-old boy with severe HHS due to type 1 diabetes. The patient's initial serum glucose level was 1600; however, he was discharged in a stable condition. The patient presented many of the known complications of HHS, including decreased level of consciousness, hypovolemic shock, acute kidney injury, and very high serum glucose levels. The patient responded well to invasive fluid resuscitation and insulin administration, was discharged in good general condition without HHS-related complications, and was followed up with insulin therapy. As the prevalence of HHS in children is increasing, it is necessary for physicians to be aware of the unusual manifestations in children, especially children with type 1 diabetes, and to have the ability to diagnose and manage HHS and differentiate it from diabetic ketoacidosis.
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