DKA is a dangerous complication that is caused by a lack of insulin in the body. It occurs when the body is unable to break down glucose, because there is not enough insulin.

Instead, it breaks down fat as an alternative source of fuel. This causes a build-up of a by-product known as ketones, which disrupts the metabolism.

The more ketones produced, the more ill a person with DKA becomes and left untreated potentially fatal complications can occur.

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