Severe DKA

My son came into ICU three weeks ago with DKA brought on by the flu. He has come along way with his organs regaining their strength and function. The main concern is his neurological status. The word Peripheral Neuropathy came up a week ago because my son has no real movement in his extremeties but was dismissed because his awareness is also a concern. He has his days when he does open his eyes and can follow simple commands like thumbs up and squeezing of the hand. He has also had days he moved his head from left to right and followed individuals with his eyes. He has had nerve conduction tests and MRIS done. But what else can be done to find out why he is having this problem. I am scared very scared. The neurologist can't give me a definite outcome for this and this condition he is in can last for several months or maybe forever. Anything you can tell me or give me in regards on what I can ask or suggest would be of great appreciation.

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

I’m very sorry to hear about your son. Has the ketoacidosis been corrected? Has the dehydration been corrected? Many times it is difficult to give prognosis in the acute setting. It may take weeks to months to determine what the long-term outcome will be.

Has your son had imaging of the head? One concerning complication of DKA correction is cerebral edema (i.e., swelling of the brain).

I would suggest that you continue your support and discussion with your son’s physicians.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.