Gurvits Syndrome as a Manifestation of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening emergency associated with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), although it is more common in type 1 diabetes. This complication can be the initial presentation of undiagnosed type 1 DM or may occur as a consequence of a precipitating cause, such as poor adherence to treatment, infections, or non-infectious diseases. Physiopathology is based on a state of insulinopenia and increased concentration of counter-regulatory hormones that result in hyperglycemia, increase production of ketone bodies, and metabolic acidosis. These mechanisms lead to an inflammatory state with increased oxidative stress, cellular damage, and endothelial dysfunction [1].