Which statement best represents the classic triad of diabetic ketoacidosis?

• A. Hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis with ketosis, dehydration
• B. Hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, dehydration
• C. Hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, pancreatitis
• D. Hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis without ketosis, dehydration

Answer: (A)

Diabetic ketoacidosis is marked by three features: marked hyperglycemia, metabolic acidosis from ketone buildup, and dehydration from osmotic diuresis. The acidosis arises because ketone bodies (like acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate) accumulate when insulin is deficient and counterregulatory hormones are high. The high glucose level drives water loss in the urine, leading to dehydration. So a statement that includes high blood sugar, acidosis with ketosis, and dehydration best represents the classic triad.

The other options mix in elements that aren’t part of that triad in the typical presentation: hypoglycemia, or acidosis without ketosis, or additional issues like pancreatitis or certain electrolyte statuses, which don’t match the defining trio of DKA.