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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Ketoacidosis and Lactic Acidosis?

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Ketoacidosis and lactic acidosis are both types of metabolic acidosis, which occurs when the level of acids in the bloodstream increases. The key difference between the two lies in the specific acid that builds up in the blood:

  • Ketoacidosis: This condition is due to the build-up of ketones in the bloodstream. There are three types of ketoacidosis: diabetic ketoacidosis, alcoholic ketoacidosis, and starvation ketoacidosis.
  • Lactic Acidosis: This condition occurs due to the build-up of lactic acid in the bloodstream. Lactic acidosis is more common in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) than traditionally appreciated and is not associated with increased mortality or intensive care unit length of stay.

Both conditions can be treated by giving intravenous fluid and replacing electrolytes. Treatments for lactic acidosis may also include increasing oxygen in the tissues. Lactic acidosis can be prevented by taking proper medication for diabetes, HIV, cancer, and avoiding misuse of alcohol.

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  • What is the Difference Between Ketoacidosis and Lactic Acidosis?
  • Comparative Table: Ketoacidosis vs Lactic Acidosis

    • Comparative Table: Ketoacidosis vs Lactic Acidosis

    Ketoacidosis and lactic acidosis are both types of metabolic acidosis, but they have different causes and characteristics. Here is a table summarizing their differences:

    Feature Ketoacidosis Lactic Acidosis
    Cause Build-up of ketones in the bloodstream, often due to uncontrolled diabetes or excessive alcohol consumption Build-up of lactic acid in the bloodstream, often due to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues or increased anaerobic metabolism
    Primary Fuel Source Fats, due to lack of insulin Glucose or muscle proteins, due to oxygen deprivation
    Common in Type 1 diabetes, chronic alcohol use disorder, undernutrition, and fasting Diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, cancer, and certain infections
    Prevention Proper medication for diabetes, HIV, cancer, and avoiding misuse of alcohol Intravenous fluid and replacing electrolytes

    Both conditions can lead to life-threatening complications and can be diagnosed through blood tests.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.