An overview of diabetic ketoacidosis in children.

Identifying the causation and development of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) helps in understanding the signs, symptoms, care and complications of cerebral oedema. Its management requires skilled nursing and involves fluid therapy, intravenous insulin, correction of potassium imbalance and strict vigilance for potentially lethal complications. This article describes the pathophysiology of DKA, identifies its causes, and discusses management and prevention strategies. While the prognosis for DKA is good, it is associated with cerebral oedema, a potentially devastating complication, and this will also be discussed.