[Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar diabetic coma in childhood. Low-dose continuous intravenous infusion of insulin (author's transl)].

Abstract

Continuous intravenous infusion of low doses of insulin has been successfully used since 1972 in the treatment of "diabetic coma". The achieved levels of plasma insulin satisfy the transport of glucose and the inhibition of lipolysis. We are to report upon 8 children (mean age: 8.5 years), 6 with diabetic ketoacidosis and 2 with hyperosmolar diabetic coma. Blood sugar levels of 300 mg/dl or less were reached after averagely 8 hours of therapy and an average consumption of 0.8 U insulin/kg. Sodium and potassium levels, osmolality and acid base parameters for the first 24 hours are described. Low-dose continuous intravenous insulin infusion was effective, simple and safe in all cases. The presently recommended dosage of 0.1 insulin/kg x hour is to be used flexibly (range: 0.05--0.2 U/kg x hour). The administration of bicarbonate should be cautiously used for patients with severe acidosis. Infusion of hypotonic solutions as part of the treatment of the hyperosmolar diabetic coma can be dangerous. A new therapeutic regime based on our results is proposed.

• Authors: M Frank, H Hörnchen, R Joosten
• Journal: Klinische Padiatrie (Klin Padiatr) Vol. 191 Issue 3 Pg. 271-9 (May 1979) ISSN: 0300-8630 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Diabetische Ketoazidose und Coma diabeticum hyperosmolare im Kindesalter. Behandlung mit kontinuierlicher Infusion kleiner Insulindosen.
• PMID: 110975 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Insulin
• Sodium
• Potassium

Topics

• Adolescent
• Child
• Diabetic Coma (drug therapy)
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (drug therapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Infant
• Infusions, Parenteral
• Insulin (administration & dosage)
• Male
• Osmolar Concentration
• Potassium (blood)
• Sodium (blood)
• Time Factors