Which is an acute complication of Type 1 diabetes mellitus?

• A. Diabetic ketoacidosis
• B. Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic coma
• C. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
• D. Peripheral neuropathy

Answer: (A)

An acute complication of Type 1 diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis, driven by absolute insulin deficiency. Without insulin, the body can’t use glucose properly and starts breaking down fat, producing ketone bodies that accumulate and cause metabolic acidosis. The high glucose level leads to osmotic diuresis, resulting in dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. Clinically you may see polyuria, polydipsia, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, rapid breathing, and sometimes fruity breath. The other options reflect long-term complications that develop with prolonged hyperglycemia, not immediate emergencies: hyperglycemic hyperosmolar states are more common in those with some insulin present (often type 2), while atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and peripheral neuropathy are chronic problems that develop over years.