What is a defining characteristic of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is characterized by the presence of metabolic acidosis, a significant anion gap, and usually elevated ketones in the blood. One of the hallmark features of DKA is a substantial base deficit, which is typically greater than 4 mEq/L. This base deficit indicates that there is a significant amount of acid in the system, reflecting the underlying ketoacidosis that occurs in uncontrolled diabetes.

In DKA, the accumulation of ketoacids leads to the consumption of bicarbonate, resulting in lower bicarbonate levels (often below 15 mg/dL), along with a compensatory respiratory alkalosis due to increased breathing effort to blow off carbon dioxide. The combination of these factors leads to a decreased pH, typically below 7.3. A greater base deficit confirms the severity of the acidosis experienced during DKA, making it a definitive characteristic of this condition.

The other options do not accurately reflect the conditions seen in DKA. For example, bicarbonate levels in DKA are generally not above 20 mg/dL, the anion gap is typically elevated (greater than 15), and the pH is usually acidic, rather than normal. Understanding the true characteristics of DKA is crucial