You are worried about your friend Mary, a type 1 diabetic. She is nauseated, short of breath, tired, and confused. She says not to worry because she just has a case of the flu. What diagnostic test should you urge her to perform to make sure that there is nothing more serious going on?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mary's symptoms suggest that she may have diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of type 1 diabetes. Testing for urinary ketones can confirm the presence of DKA, and prompt medical attention can be given to treat the condition. Blood bilirubin and blood pressure tests are unlikely to be helpful in diagnosing DKA. A stress test for the heart is also unlikely to be directly related to Mary's symptoms.

You Are Worried About Your Friend Mary, a Type 1