Which combination meets the UK criteria for diagnosing diabetic ketoacidosis?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Ketones 3 mmol/L or more, glucose over 11 or known diabetes, and pH below 7.3 or bicarbonate below 15
- Step 1: DKA is defined by hyperglycaemia or diabetes, ketonaemia and acidosis together. Step 2. The Joint British Diabetes Societies criteria require all three components. Answer: Ketones 3 mmol/L or more, glucose over 11 or known diabetes, and pH below 7.3 or bicarbonate below 15. Why not the others: Glucose alone does not show ketosis or acidosis. A ketone of 0.6 is not diagnostic. Acidosis without ketones suggests another cause.
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