Ketonemia

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ketonemia is a medical condition characterized by elevated levels of ketone bodies in the blood. It is a form of metabolic acidosis due to the high concentration of acidic ketone bodies. Ketonemia is often associated with diabetes mellitus and other conditions that involve impaired glucose metabolism.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Ketonemia is most commonly caused by diabetes mellitus, particularly type 1 diabetes. It can also occur in individuals with alcoholism, starvation, and those on a ketogenic diet. Other causes include prolonged fasting, pregnancy, and certain metabolic disorders.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of ketonemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, and a distinctive fruity odor on the breath. In severe cases, it can lead to coma or death.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of ketonemia is typically made through blood tests that measure the level of ketone bodies. Other tests may include urinalysis to detect ketones in the urine and arterial blood gas to assess the body's acid-base balance.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for ketonemia primarily involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include insulin therapy for individuals with diabetes, dietary modifications for those on a ketogenic diet, or treatment of alcoholism in individuals with alcohol-related ketonemia.

See also[edit | edit source]

Ketonemia Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD