Cerebral Edema in Patients with DKA

• Cerebral Edema is a rare, yet catastrophic complication of Pediatric DKA.
  • Occurs in ~1% of episodes of pediatric DKA
  • Mortality rate of 40-90%; 20-40% of survivors have lasting Neuro Sequelae.
• Risk Factors
  • High initial BUN
  • Low paCO2
  • No increase of the sodium during therapy
  • Treatment with bicarbonate
• Diagnosis is made clinically
  • Warning Signs = Headache, Vomitting, Lethargy, Bradycardia, and Hypertension
  • Keep Mannitol (0.25-1.0 grams/kg) at the bedside.  Administer it and stop IVF once you suspect Cerebral Edema.
    
    Glaser N, et al: Risk factors for cerebral edema in children with DKA. NEJM.2001:344:264-9