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Alcoholic ketoacidosis

Definition

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is the build up of ketones in the blood. Ketones are a type of acid that form when the body breaks down fat for energy.

The condition is an acute form of metabolic acidosis.

Alternative Names

Ketoacidosis - alcoholic

Causes

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is caused by excessive alcohol use. It is most often seen in a malnourished person who drinks large amounts of alcohol every day.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain
Agitation
Altered level of alertness, which may lead to coma (unresponsiveness)
Confusion
Fatigue
Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
Irregular deep, rapid breathing (Kussmaul's sign)
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness and light-headedness

Exams and Tests

Arterial blood gases
Blood alcohol level
Blood chemistries, such as CHEM-20
Toxicology (poison) screening
Urine ketones

Treatment

This version of the Encyclopedia has no treatment information. Please discuss any and all treatment options for your condition with your healthcare professional.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Prompt medical attention improves the overall outlook.

Possible Complications

This can be a life-threatening disorder. Patients with alcoholic ketoacidosis often have or develop gastrointestinal bleeding, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and pneumonia.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If you or someone else has symptoms of alcoholic ketoacidosis, seek emergency medical help.

Prevention

Limiting the amount of alcohol you drink may help prevent this condition.

References

Cho KC, Fukagawa M, Kurokawa K. Fluid and electrolyte disorders. In: McPhee SJ, Papadakis MA, eds. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment. 48th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2009:chap 21.

DuBose TD Jr. Acidosis and alkalosis. In: Fauci A , Kasper D, Longo DL, et al, eds. Harrison's Principals of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2008:chap 48.

Review Date: 4/21/2009
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, Clinic. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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