Diabetes technology & therapeutics
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Diabetes Technol. Ther. · Dec 2006
Bedside monitoring of blood beta-hydroxybutyrate levels in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis in children.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) affects many children with type 1 diabetes. Insulin treatment of DKA is traditionally guided by changes in the blood glucose levels and blood gases, whereas beta-hydroxybutyrate (beta-OHB)--the main ketoacid causing acidosis--is rarely measured. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if bedside monitoring of blood beta-OHB levels can simplify management of DKA through elimination of superfluous laboratory monitoring. ⋯ The Precision Xtra accurately measures blood beta-OHB levels, particularly at lower levels. While the initial measurement of pH and/or bicarbonates is warranted, real-time beta-OHB levels may replace repeat laboratory measurement of these parameters in the management of DKA. Future studies should evaluate safety and cost-effectiveness of such simplified DKA treatment protocol.