[Nonketotic hyperosmolar coma. Clinical aspects and treatment in 12 cases]

Abstract

Non-ketotic hyperosmolar diabetic coma is a complication of diabetes characterised by extreme dehydration, plasmatic hyperosmolarity and the absence of ketosis. The mortality rate is very high, especially in elderly subjects with type II diabetes. A personal series of 12 cases is reported with an assessment of general features, triggering factors, biochemical parameters at onset and treatment given. The data confirm reports in the literature and the results show the therapeutic superiority of continuous endovenous infusions of insulin at 3-10 mu/hour over other treatment protocols.