ClinIQ Lexicon · Abbreviation
HHS — Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State
What HHS means
HHS is a hyperglycemic emergency characterized by profound hyperglycemia, marked serum hyperosmolarity, severe dehydration, and altered mental status — but with little or no ketosis. It evolves over days rather than hours and classically affects older patients with type 2 diabetes.
HHS in clinical practice
Compared with DKA, HHS carries higher mortality and demands aggressive volume repletion alongside insulin. Exam stems distinguish the two by ketone presence, osmolarity, and onset speed. The ClinIQ endocrinology article contrasts HHS with DKA point by point.
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