Hyperosmolar nonketotic diabetic coma: diagnosis and management.

Hyperosmolar nonketotic diabetic coma (HHNC) is a syndrome of acute decompensation of diabetes mellitus, occurring mainly in the elderly and characterized by marked hyperglycemia, hyperosmolarity, severe dehydration, occasional neurological signs, obtunded sensorium, and absence of ketonemia or acidosis. The mortality is high. Early aggressive therapy with large amounts of normal or half normal saline, insulin, and potassium is of prime importance. Since associated diseases cause most fatalities the importance of managing these problems effectively cannot be overemphasized. Complications of therapy can be congestive heart failure secondary to excessive fluid administration, hypoglycemia if too much insulin is given, and hypokalemia if potassium is inadequately replaced.