When Crisis Strikes: The Acute Complications of Diabetes

Because of their devastating long-term effects, the chronic complications of diabetes receive the bulk of attention in both clinical practice and the literature. However, the acute complications of diabetes also have devastating consequences, and because of their emergent nature, require prompt recognition and competent management. These complications are diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, also known as hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic state, and hypoglycemia. They represent extremes in the spectrum of dysglycemia. This review provides current clinically relevant information on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, causes, clinical presentation, and management of these conditions.