[Ketoacidosis in children].

Ketoacidosis is a condition accounting for a significant mortality in children with diabetes. It is mainly observed in subjects whom initial diagnosis was not made promptly, and in adolescents. Complications are hypokaliemia and cerebral oedema which is the major cause of death. Treatment is based on pathophysiology and knowledge of the complication risk factors. Insulin therapy is associated with precocious sodium and potassium replacement, and with gradual rehydration coupled to intensive monitoring.