Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis in the setting of acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition among diabetic patients characterized by metabolic anion gap (AG) acidosis of arterial pH <7.30, glucose >250 mg/dL, and positive ketones. The triggers for DKA can be infection, surgery, and, in reported cases, intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH). In rare cases of DKA, despite being in active ketoacidosis, glucose levels may be within normal or accepted range. Such a condition is called euglycemic DKA. It has been recently recognized in association with the use of sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

An 83-year-old male taking an SGLT-2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) for type 2 diabetes presented with an IPH. His laboratory studies revealed an elevated AG acidosis, an elevated beta hydroxybutyrate, and serum glucose levels within the acceptable range. Urine studies revealed elevated ketones and glucose. The diagnosis of euglycemic DKA was made, and the patient was treated with insulin and glucose infusions.

Like hyperglycemic ketoacidosis, euglycemic DKA requires prompt recognition and immediate aggressive medical therapy, but the diagnosis can be challenging, and the treatment using insulin in the setting of a normal glucose can be counterintuitive. Euglycemic DKA can often be missed in the setting of blood glucose not being elevated. Prompt recognition and treatment are critical for successful management.