title: The effect on mortality of low-dose insulin therapy for diabetic ketoacidosis.
abstract: The presentation, treatment, and outcome in 353 episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis have been examined to assess the effect of low-dose insulin therapy on mortality. There were 19 deaths during the period of study, with a mortality rate of 4.4% for patients treated with infrequent large doses of soluble insulin and 4.6% for patients treated with frequent intramuscular injections or continuous infusion of insulin. We conclude that in a center which practices an intensive care approach to the management of diabetic ketoacidosis, the use of a low-dose insulin regimen has not altered mortality.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000401:mortality*; D006801:Humans; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D007328:Insulin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged
chemical_list: D007328:Insulin