ketosis /kitō″sis/ [Gk, keton + glykys, sweet + osis, condition] , the abnormal accumulation of ketones in the body as a result of excessive breakdown of fats caused by a deficiency or inadequate use of carbohydrates. Fatty acids are metabolized instead, and the end products, ketones, begin to accumulate. This condition is seen in starvation, occasionally in pregnancy if the intake of protein and carbohydrates is inadequate, and most frequently in diabetes mellitus. See also diabetes mellitus, ketoacidosis, starvation. −ketotic, adj. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: It is characterized by ketonuria, loss of potassium in the urine, and a fruity odor of acetone on the breath. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Frequent blood glucose monitoring by patients with diabetes mellitus facilitates the prompt treatment of high blood glucose levels before ketosis develops. ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: Untreated, ketosis may progress to ketoacidosis, coma, and death.
