2026 Pediatric Symposium - DKA: Clinical Pearls and Pitfalls

Course overview

This class provides a comprehensive overview of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a critical and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes in children. Participants will learn how to recognize, classify, and manage DKA through a structured, evidence-based approach. The session will begin with the diagnosis and classification of DKA, including key laboratory findings and severity criteria used in pediatric patients. Learners will then explore the underlying pathophysiology of DKA, focusing on insulin deficiency, counter-regulatory hormones, and the metabolic processes that lead to hyperglycemia, ketosis, and metabolic acidosis. Understanding these mechanisms will help clarify why specific treatments are used. The course will also review the primary treatment goals of DKA, including fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, electrolyte management, and safe correction of metabolic abnormalities. Special attention will be given to the assessment and management of common complications, such as cerebral edema, hypoglycemia, and electrolyte disturbances. Finally, the class will highlight clinical pearls and common pitfalls in DKA management, equipping learners with practical strategies to avoid errors and improve patient outcomes. By the end of the session, participants will be better prepared to identify DKA early, implement appropriate treatment protocols, and manage complications effectively in pediatric patients.