Alcoholic ketoacidosis

Definition:

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is excessive alcohol consumption causing ketones, a type of acid, to accumulate in the blood.

Alternative Names:

Ketoacidosis - alcoholic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This disorder can be a complication of alcohol use, especially excessive alcohol use.

Symptoms:

Fatigue
Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
Breathing difficulty leading, when untreated, to an abnormal breathing pattern
Irregular deep, rapid breathing (Kussmaul's)
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness and light headedness
Confusion
Agitation
Changes in mentation leading to loss of consciousness

Signs and tests:

Blood and urine tests for excess acids, or ketones, in the body
Blood chemistry tests
Tests to quantify the amount of alcohol in the blood

Treatment:

Treatment in the hospital with intravenous fluids and frequent blood draws may be necessary to reverse the acidosis. Occasionally patients require intensive care unit stays.

Expectations (prognosis):

Prompt medical attention improves the overall prognosis of this condition.

Complications:

This can be a life-threatening disorder.

Calling your health care provider:

If you, a family member, or a friend have symptoms of alcoholic ketoacidosis, seek medical attention from an emergency department.

Prevention:

Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels.

Review Date: 11/2/2001
Reviewed By: Sarah Pressman Lovinger, M.D., General Internist at Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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