What is diabetic ketoacidosis?

Diabetic ketoacidosis is primarily a condition resulting from insulin deficiency. In this state, the lack of sufficient insulin impairs the body's ability to utilize glucose for energy, leading to the breakdown of fat as an alternative energy source. This process produces ketones, which are acidic byproducts that accumulate in the blood, resulting in ketoacidosis.

Ketoacidosis can occur in individuals with type 1 diabetes, as they typically experience a complete deficiency of insulin due to the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells. While it can also occur in type 2 diabetes, especially under stressful conditions or illness when insulin levels are inadequate, it is most commonly associated with type 1 diabetes.

Thus, the correct understanding of diabetic ketoacidosis hinges on its relationship with insulin deficiency and the subsequent metabolic derangements that ensue, including elevated blood glucose levels and increased ketone production.