Balanced crystalloids vs. 0.9% saline in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - Scorecard - MDSpire

Balanced crystalloids vs. 0.9% saline in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

  • By

  • Zeid Alkhairi

  • Charlie Kajo

  • Abdolaziz A. Zadeh

  • Dawood Khaja

  • Mohammad Alqaryuti

  • Nada K. Alsaleh

  • Rataj Alibrahim

  • Fahad Almuhannadi

  • Suod Al Hammad

  • Fatima Alqanea

  • Abdullatif Alfehaid

  • July 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Comparison of Balanced Crystalloids and 0.9% Saline for Fluid Resuscitation in Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Key MechanismsFluid resuscitation to correct hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis.
Target PopulationPediatric patients with DKA
Care SettingEmergency and inpatient care

Key Highlights

  • Balanced crystalloids showed a modest decrease in time to DKA resolution.
  • No significant difference in new-onset acute kidney injury between fluid types.
  • Balanced crystalloids associated with lower incidence of hypokalemia and hyperchloremia.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • DKA is diagnosed by hyperglycemia, ketosis, and acidosis.

Management

  • Fluid resuscitation is critical, with consideration of fluid type.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor for electrolyte imbalances and complications during treatment.

Risks

  • Potential for hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis with 0.9% saline.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Children diagnosed with DKA.

Current evidence does not support a transition from NS to balanced crystalloids as the initial fluid.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Utilize a structured approach for fluid resuscitation in pediatric DKA.
  • Consider the risk of cerebral edema and renal injury when selecting fluid type.

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