What is the typical serum glucose level range in HHS?

What is the typical serum glucose level range in HHS?

• A. 70-110 mg/dL
• B. 600-1200 mg/dL
• C. 150-300 mg/dL
• D. 300-500 mg/dL

Answer: (B)

Severe hyperglycemia with very high serum osmolality is the hallmark of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS). In this condition, glucose levels rise far above normal, reaching the highest ranges seen with hyperglycemic crises. The option describing such extreme elevations is the best choice because it matches the physiologic hallmark of HHS. The other options reflect normal glucose or only modest elevations, which do not fit the picture of HHS. Clinically, HHS often occurs in older adults with type 2 diabetes and presents with profound dehydration due to osmotic diuresis, rather than the ketoacidosis seen in other states.

Severe hyperglycemia with very high serum osmolality is the hallmark of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS). In this condition, glucose levels rise far above normal, reaching the highest ranges seen with hyperglycemic crises. The option describing such extreme elevations is the best choice because it matches the physiologic hallmark of HHS. The other options reflect normal glucose or only modest elevations, which do not fit the picture of HHS. Clinically, HHS often occurs in older adults with type 2 diabetes and presents with profound dehydration due to osmotic diuresis, rather than the ketoacidosis seen in other states.