The British journal of clinical practice
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Diabetic ketoacidosis is associated with an increased anion gap but its recovery phase may be complicated by hyperchloraemic acidosis with a normal anion gap. We report a case where this complication developed. There was a delayed return to normal acid-balance, possibly aggravated by administration of hyperchloraemic fluids, and the true diagnosis was overlooked. Measurement of the anion gap remains an important part of the assessment of diabetic acid-base disturbances.