Which finding best supports the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis?

Which finding best supports the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Fruity Breath Odor
• C. Slow Regular Breathing
• D. Moist Mucous Membranes

Answer: (B)

In diabetic ketoacidosis, insulin deficiency drives lipolysis and ketone production, leading to acetone buildup that is exhaled and gives a distinctive fruity breath. This breath odor is a classic, highly suggestive clue that points toward ketosis and metabolic acidosis, which are key features of DKA. Other signs listed are less specific. Hypertension is not typical in DKA; dehydration often causes dry mucous membranes and can lead to hypotension or tachycardia rather than moist membranes. DKA characteristically causes rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respiration) rather than slow, regular breathing, reflecting the metabolic acidosis driving compensatory respirations.

In diabetic ketoacidosis, insulin deficiency drives lipolysis and ketone production, leading to acetone buildup that is exhaled and gives a distinctive fruity breath. This breath odor is a classic, highly suggestive clue that points toward ketosis and metabolic acidosis, which are key features of DKA.

Other signs listed are less specific. Hypertension is not typical in DKA; dehydration often causes dry mucous membranes and can lead to hypotension or tachycardia rather than moist membranes. DKA characteristically causes rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respiration) rather than slow, regular breathing, reflecting the metabolic acidosis driving compensatory respirations.