## Core Concept
The patient's presentation suggests diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and increased ketone bodies. The laboratory findings of hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis (low pH and bicarbonate), and elevated ketone bodies support this diagnosis.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
In DKA, the body starts breaking down fat for energy instead of glucose, producing ketone bodies. The presence of ketone bodies (350 mg/dl) and metabolic acidosis (pH 7.1, bicarbonate 12 mmol/L) are hallmarks of DKA. Hyperglycemia is a defining feature, typically with blood glucose levels significantly elevated, often above 250 mg/dl. The patient's symptoms and lab findings are consistent with DKA, which usually presents with high blood glucose levels.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option suggests a normal blood glucose level, which is not consistent with DKA where hyperglycemia is a key feature.
- **Option B:** This option suggests a mildly elevated blood glucose level, which might not fully align with the severity typically seen in DKA.
- **Option D:** This option suggests a blood glucose level that might be seen in mild hyperglycemia but does not match the severity expected in DKA.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that DKA can present with a variety of blood glucose levels, but levels are often, though not always, above 250 mg/dl. The presence of ketonemia and metabolic acidosis is critical for the diagnosis.
## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: C. 600 mg/dl.**
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