Serum Phosphate Levels and its Clinical Significance in Diabetic Ketoacidosis
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Abstract
Background: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis. Electrolyte imbalances, particularly in serum phosphate levels, significantly impact clinical outcomes in DKA. Phosphate disturbances are common due to insulin deficiency, hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, and the catabolic state of DKA, potentially leading to hypophosphatemia with serious consequences.
Objective: To investigate the clinical significance of serum phosphate levels in DKA patients, exploring their correlation with disease severity and treatment responses.
Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to June 2024 at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College, Puducherry. Forty-five adult patients with DKA, as per ADA guidelines, participated after providing informed consent. Data on demographics, clinical assessments, and laboratory tests were collected and analyzed using SPSS and Excel, with statistical significance determined by a p-value <0.05.
Results: The study population includes 45 patients with mean age of 52.91 years, with a slight female predominance (53.3%). High fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels were observed, indicative of severe hyperglycemia. A significant reduction in serum phosphate levels was noted from a mean of 3.77 mg/dL pre-treatment to 2.85 mg/dL post-treatment (p=0.001). There was no significant correlation between fasting blood sugar and serum phosphate levels (Pearson coefficient -0.081, p=0.450).
Conclusion: The study highlights a prevalence of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) among middle-aged to older adults with significant phosphate level reduction post-treatment. While no significant correlation was found between fasting blood sugar and serum phosphate levels, careful monitoring of phosphate is crucial to prevent complications. Individualized management of biochemical parameters remains essential in Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) treatment.