DKA is a life-threatening condition in diabetes characterized by:

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication primarily seen in type 1 diabetes that arises when the body starts to break down fats at an abnormal rate. This leads to the production of ketones, causing acidosis and significantly elevating blood glucose levels. The hallmark indicators of DKA include a markedly high blood glucose level, often exceeding 330 mg/dL, along with metabolic acidosis, which is characterized by an increased concentration of ketone bodies in the blood.

In this context, the combination of elevated blood glucose and acidosis accurately describes the physiological changes occurring during DKA, validating the correctness of the selected answer. The presence of acidosis can be confirmed through laboratory assessments, specifically noting a low blood pH and bicarbonate levels. These factors highlight the life-threatening nature of DKA and emphasize the critical need for immediate medical intervention to address both hyperglycemia and acidosis effectively.

Other options do not depict the classic signs and laboratory findings associated with DKA. Cold extremities and fever may suggest other conditions but do not encapsulate the essence of DKA. Normal blood pressure and tachycardia can occur in various clinical scenarios but lack specificity to the metabolic derangements seen in DKA. Similarly, weight gain