The most common form of diabetes in children and adolescents, Type 1 diabetes was once called "Juvenile Diabetes." It's a form of autoimmune disease in which, for reasons that aren't well understood, the protective cells of the body's immune system mistakenly attack insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. That can prevent the pancreas from producing enough insulin to meet the body's needs. Without enough insulin, sugar builds up in the blood, which can lead to serious health problems, potential

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body either doesn't make enough insulin or the body's cells become resistant to insulin's effects, often because a person eats a diet that includes too much sugar and carbohydrates. Type 2 diabetes is mostly diagnosed in overweight adults, but the condition is becoming more common in children and adolescents, especially those who are overweight or obese.

If the body doesn't get the insulin it needs to use sugar as fuel, it begins to use stored fat for energy. As fat cells are broken down by the body, they release chemicals called ketones. If too many ketones build up in the bloodstream, that can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. While it's possible for those with Type 2 diabetes to experience DKA, the condition is much more likely in those with Type 1.