Peripheral and autonomic nerve function in diabetic ketoacidosis.

Peripheral and autonomic nerve function was assessed at intervals over a 3-month period in seven diabetics after ketoacidosis. There was marked improvement in motor conduction velocity and terminal latency of both ulnar and common peroneal nerves in all patients. Five had one or more abnormal autonomic function tests but there were no consistent changes during the same period. It is postulated that peripheral nerves may be more susceptible to acute metabolic damage than autonomic fibres.