Diagnostic and Evolutionary Aspects of Inaugural Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Dakar Hospital Setting: A Descriptive and Analytical Cross-Sectional Study in the Endocrinology-Metabolism-Nutrition Department of CHN de Pikine

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most common metabolic complication of diabetes. Although historically reported in children, it is increasingly observed in adults. Short-term outcomes and prognosis vary widely across healthcare settings. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence, diagnostic characteristics, and outcomes of newly diagnosed diabetic ketoacidosis in a hospital setting in Dakar. Methodology: We conducted a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study from January 1, 2020, to January 31, 2021, in the Endocrinology-Metabolism Department of the Pikine National Hospital Center. All diabetic patients hospitalized for newly diagnosed diabetic ketoacidosis during this period were included. Results: A total of 54 patients were enrolled in the study. The prevalence of newly diagnosed DKA in the facility was 17.1%. The mean age was 38.54 years, with a male predominance and a sex ratio of 1.16. Thirty-five patients had a family history of diabetes. Upon admission, 14.9% of patients had altered consciousness, and 92.4% exhibited cardinal symptoms, with an average duration of 14.2 days. Kussmaul breathing and gastrointestinal symptoms were observed in 13% and 33% of cases, respectively. The mean capillary blood glucose level at admission was 3.43 g/L. Infection was identified as the precipitating factor in half of the cases, while no triggering factor was found in the remaining cases. The mean BMI was 25.27 kg/m2, and the average glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level was 12.2%. We recorded the diabetes classification for all patients. Nine had type 1 diabetes, twelve had type 1b diabetes, thirty-one had type 2 diabetes, and two had diabetes secondary to corticosteroid therapy. All patients received continuous intravenous insulin therapy via a syringe pump. The mean time to ketosis resolution was 34.6 hours. The average total dose of regular insulin administered was 442.3 IU. The mean duration of hospitalization was 7.6 days. One patient died, and fifty-one were discharged while continuing insulin therapy, with an average dose of 53 IU. Conclusion: The prevalence of newly diagnosed DKA remains high. With proper management, the prognosis is generally favorable. Diabetes classification is crucial, as it determines subsequent treatment strategies.