[Comparison of 2 modes of treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in children].

In two groups of children with diabetic ketoacidosis, the effects of intramuscular insulin injections associated with intensive rehydration and alkalisation were compared with low-dose continuous intravenous infusion associated with well-controlled fluid and electrolyte therapy. Although correction of ketoacidosis was as effective with both methods, the second appeared to offer several advantages: 1. More progressive normalization of metabolic parameters; 2. Reduced risks of hypoglycemia and hypokaliemia; 3. Easier control of the decrease in plasma glucose levels; 4. Better correction of hyponatremia; 5. More gradual increase in pH values. These results confirmed that low-dose continuous insulin infusion with proper monitoring of fluid and electrolyte replacement was a safe, simple and effective treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis in children.