Accessibility ToolsKetosis-prone Diabetes (KPD)
Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD), sometimes called Flatbush diabetes, is a less common form of diabetes that shows features of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
People with KPD often become very unwell at first and may develop a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — this is when the body runs out of insulin and starts breaking down fat for energy, leading to a dangerous buildup of acids (ketones) in the blood.
What makes KPD unusual is that, although it starts off looking like Type 1 diabetes (where insulin is needed straight away), some people later recover enough to manage their diabetes without insulin for a period of time, similar to Type 2 diabetes.
The symptoms of KPD often come on suddenly and can be quite severe, especially if diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) develops.
Early symptoms may include:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Passing urine more often than usual
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased hunger
Symptoms of a medical emergency:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Deep or rapid breathing
- Fruity or sweet-smelling breath
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Drowsiness or loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
If you experience any of these DKA symptoms, seek urgent medical help or call 999. DKA can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Treatment for Ketosis-Prone Diabetes (KPD) usually starts with insulin to treat high blood sugar and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) if it’s present. Once blood sugar levels are stable, your diabetes team will review whether you need to continue insulin or can switch to tablets.
Some people go into remission, meaning they can manage their diabetes without insulin for a time, but regular monitoring is essential as insulin may be needed again later.
Long-term management includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and keeping regular appointments with your diabetes team to adjust treatment as needed.
Contact your GP or diabetes team if your blood sugars are consistently higher than usual or if you’re unsure how to manage your insulin or medication.
Seek urgent medical help (call 999 or go to A&E) if you have signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), such as:
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
- Stomach pain
- Deep or fast breathing
- Fruity or sweet-smelling breath
- Extreme tiredness, confusion, or drowsiness
- These symptoms can be serious and need immediate treatment.
