Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome in patient with bipolar disorder

Abstract

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome is one of acute complications of diabetes. It usually appears in type 2 diabetics, when insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells is sufficient to prevent lipolysis and ketogenesis. It is however inadequate to maintain normoglycemia. Conditions of excessive release of counterregulatory hormones may lead to this complication. The onset of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome may be also directly or indirectly dependent on current therapy. Lithium used in treatment of depressive states may worsen hyperglycemia by impairing kidney-regulated water homeostasis. (Diabet. Prakt. 2010; 11, 6: 230–234)