Ecg & Echo Changes in Children With DKA

DKA can affect cardiovascular function through several mechanisms. The effect of acidosis on the heart depends upon the pH level. In mild acidosis, there is increased catecholamine release which is compensated by increased inotropy, chronotropy, cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance. When acidosis is severe, i.e. pH is less than 7.2, the H+ ions have a direct cardiac depressant action.

Fluid and electrolyte imbalance is very common in DKA, Potassium deficit is one of the most important of electrolyte imbalances seen in DKA as it can lead to fatal arrhythmias. The most common and perhaps the earliest ECG finding in hypokalemia is a prominent U wave, usually evident in leads II and III. The most common cardiac arrhythmias are atrial premature contractions, atrial tachycardia with or without atrioventricular block, supraventricular and ventricular premature contractions.