What is a primary cause of metabolic acidosis?

• A. Excessive vomiting
• B. Diabetic ketoacidosis
• C. Dehydration
• D. Respiratory failure

Answer: (B)

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a primary cause of metabolic acidosis because it occurs when the body produces high levels of ketone bodies as a result of insufficient insulin and increased fat metabolism. In this state, there is an accumulation of acids in the blood, primarily due to the breakdown of fatty acids. The elevated levels of ketones, which are acidic, lead to a decrease in blood pH, thus resulting in metabolic acidosis.

This condition is commonly associated with type 1 diabetes but can occur in individuals with type 2 diabetes during periods of stress or infection. The metabolic disturbance reflects an imbalance, as the production of acids exceeds the body’s ability to buffer them, highlighting the critical link between diabetes management and acid-base equilibrium in the body.