ketoacidosis

ketoacidosis A life-threatening feature of uncontrolled diabetes that is characterized by a combination of ketosis and acidosis. Ketosis is the accumulation of substances called ketone bodies in the blood. Acidosis is increased acidity of the blood. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include slow, deep breathing with a fruity odor to the breath, confusion, frequent urination (polyuria), poor appetite, and eventually loss of consciousness. Ketoacidosis should be treated immediately and is usually done in a hospital. It may require the administration of intravenous fluids, insulin, and glucose. See also diabetes mellitus; ketone bodies.