Blood Ketones Test

A blood ketone test measures the level of ketones present in the blood. Ketones are substances produced by the body when there is an inadequate supply of glucose, which is the main energy source of the body. At these times, fat is used as a fuel. The metabolism of fat gives rise to ketone bodies in the blood. This condition is most commonly seen with people suffering from type 1 diabetes, further giving rise to a condition known as diabetic ketosis (DKA). However, type 2 diabetes is also capable of causing DKA. DKA leads to severe insulin deficiency, a high blood glucose level and disruption of the acid-base balance of the body. Symptoms of excessive ketones in the blood are dehydration, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, fruity scent of the breath, confusion and ultimately coma. Ketone bodies are of three different types: beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate and acetone. Among them, beta-hydroxybutyrate makes up 75 per cent of the total ketones. Different blood ketone tests measure the presence of different ketone bodies in the blood. Apart from the blood ketone test, urine ketone tests can also be performed. The blood ketone test helps to indicate the current state of ketone accumulation in blood, while the urine tests help to indicate the recent state of ketone accumulation in the blood. Blood ketone tests are mostly prescribed to patients who have diabetes along with symptoms of DKA. It is also recommended to sick or pregnant individuals who can develop DKA. The incidence of DKA is quite common in India. DKA mostly affects infants, children and individuals who are less than 24 years of age. DKA is found to affect 15 to 70 per cent of children and infants with diabetes. The overall mortality associated with DKA ranges from 4 to 10 per cent.