An Atypical Presentation of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State Induced by SARS CoV 2

Abstract

Hyperglycemic emergencies such as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) or Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) are commonly precipitated by infectious processes. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel infectious process prompting hyperglycemic crisis. SARS-CoV-2 at the level of the lungs affects ACE2 functioning which in turns decrease the B cells proliferation at the pancreas and hinders insulin secretion. Advanced age and comorbidities such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus are considered to be a risk factors for severe illness and mortality between patients with SARS-CoV-2. We present the case of a 39-year-old woman with medical history of uterine fibroma, who presented with complains of general malaise, polyuria and polydipsia of one week evolution, associated with sore throat, subjective fever, dry cough, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Physical examination remarkable for dry oral mucosa, decreased skin turgor, and prolonged capillary refills. Vital signs significant for hypertension, tachycardia, and tachypnea. Laboratory work up remarkable for glucose of 1321 mg/dL, HCO3- of 16 mEq/L, serum osmolality of 333 mOsm/kg, serum ketones positive and HbA1C of 15%. ABG’s showed pH of 7.33, PCO2 of 29.8 and a PAO2 of 158.5 mmHg for a high anion gap metabolic acidosis (AG of 15.3 mEq/L), non-anion gap metabolic acidosis with respiratory alkalosis. Chest X-ray revealed bilateral perihilar, peribronchial cuffing. SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing was positive. Clinical and laboratory workup met criteria for diagnosis of HHS and Diabetes Mellitus de Novo most likely secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patient was treated with aggressive IV hydration and insulin infusion with resolution of hyperglycemia, ketonemia and symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 infection can precipitate acute metabolic complications in patients with diabetes or unknown diagnosis of diabetes. The effect of the virus could be direct effect on β-cell function. To our knowledge, there are only a few cases reported of HHS precipitated by SARS-CoV-2 infection therefore medical awareness is important for early diagnosis of possible triggering factors such as COVID-19 and early management of patients presenting with new onset hyperglycemic emergencies.