What is the primary cause of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?

The primary cause of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is often related to a combination of factors that lead to inadequate insulin in the body, which can be precipitated by a recent illness, such as a viral upper respiratory infection. This is significant because such infections can stress the body, causing an increase in counter-regulatory hormones like glucagon and cortisol, which can inhibit insulin's action and lead to the breakdown of fat for energy. The resulting increase in ketone bodies then leads to the metabolic state known as ketoacidosis.

While dehydration, excessive carbohydrate intake, and severe physical exertion can contribute to the development of DKA, they are generally not the primary triggers. Dehydration often occurs as a result of DKA rather than being its initial cause. Similarly, while excessive carbohydrate intake can elevate blood glucose levels, it typically does not lead directly to DKA in the absence of significant underlying issues with insulin management, which is often exacerbated by illness. Severe physical exertion can also lead to metabolic changes, but it is not typically seen as a primary cause of DKA compared to the physiological stress of illness.