**Core Concept**
The patient's presentation suggests diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and ketosis. The key underlying principle here is the pathophysiology of DKA, which involves impaired insulin secretion and increased glucagon levels, leading to hyperglycemia and ketogenesis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In DKA, the body's inability to utilize glucose for energy due to insulin deficiency leads to increased gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis. The resulting hyperglycemia triggers the liver to produce ketone bodies as an alternative energy source. In this patient, the presence of ketone bodies (350 mg/dl) and metabolic acidosis (low blood pH and low bicarbonate levels) confirms the diagnosis of DKA. The expected level of blood glucose in this condition is typically very high, often above 250 mg/dl.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is too low and does not reflect the expected level of blood glucose in DKA.
**Option B:** This option is also too low and does not accurately represent the hyperglycemia seen in DKA.
**Option D:** This option is too high, but the correct answer is closer to this range.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In DKA, the presence of ketone bodies and metabolic acidosis indicates a more severe form of the condition, and prompt treatment with insulin and fluid replacement is essential to prevent complications.
**Correct Answer:** C.
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