Pathophysiology

Absolute lack of insulin

Transport of glucose to
cells
is impossible

Decreased glucose levels

inside the cell

Increased blood glucose

level: more than 250
mg/dL

Protein breakdown
for fuelling cells

Transport impossible;
glucose stays in the
bloodstream

Fat breakdown (lipolysis)

as source of fuel for cells

Release of ketones as byproduct

Increased ketones in the

blood
Cell hunger/ (-) ATP inside
cells

Cell hunger/ (-) ATP

inside cells
DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS

Stimulation of
hypothalamus (hunger
center)
Lungs compensate
through increasing
exhalation of CO2

More breakdown of
carbohydrates into
glucose
Kussmauls respiration
deep, rapid breathing
No insulin to transport
glucose into cells; increase
serum glucose level

Acetone breath

Kidney corrects
metabolic acidosis

Ketonuria - Increased
excretion of ketones in
the urine