RESUMO
Peritonsillar abscess is an infection of tonsillar soft tissue which can spread into additional neck structures leading to symptoms of fever, sore throat, dysphagia, and airway compromise. We describe a case of diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with a history of uncontrolled type II diabetes mellitus admitted for a peritonsillar abscess who received intravenous steroids for management of the abscess swelling. The patient was treated with an insulin drip, hydration, and electrolyte replacement with a resolution to his anion gap and metabolic acidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs during increased gluconeogenesis leading to ketosis and metabolic acidosis which can be a life-threatening condition if not quickly recognized and treated. This case highlights the importance of monitoring and treating elevated blood glucose in acutely ill patients receiving steroid therapy.
