Diabetic Ketoacidosis: An Uncommon Manifestation of Pesticide Poisoning

Diabetic ketoacidosis in adolescents can be a cause of severe morbidity and mortality, especially if unrecognized at the time of first diagnosis (1). We present a 15-year-old girl who was initially treated for “diabetic ketoacidosis” with further worsening of her general condition. This delayed recovery, coupled with focused investigations, finally led us to a diagnosis and the appropriate management of an intentional overdose with organophosphorous (OP) pesticide, presenting as diabetic ketoacidosis. Our aim is also to raise awareness of the effects of organophosphates, widely used as pesticides, on glucose metabolism, and its potential implications in the epidemic of diabetes worldwide.A 15-year-old girl was admitted with a 10-h history of giddiness, vomiting, and drowsiness. She was apparently well the evening prior to her admission. Clinical examination …