Categories: Endocrinology

Fruity Breath in DKA: Mechanism

Acetone produces the characteristic fruity odor on the breath found in some patients in DKA.

HOW? Acetone is very volatile and can form a gas to be expired through the lungs.

REFERENCES

  1. Chapter 225: Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Tintinalli’s Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide, 8e
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Dr. C Humphreys

Internal Medicine

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