HHNK

Medical abbreviation · Endocrinology & Diabetes

HHNK
Stands forHyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic state
CategoriesMedical

HHNK stands for Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic state, an endocrinology & diabetes abbreviation.

Older name for HHS, also expanded as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic coma. It describes extreme hyperglycemia and dehydration with little or no ketone production.

Example: 1990s chart describes admission for HHNK coma with glucose above 1,000.

Usage notes

The term was replaced because many patients have some ketosis and most are not in coma. Variants include HONK (hyperosmolar nonketotic) in older British texts. Modern guidelines from the ADA and international societies use HHS exclusively.

More endocrinology & diabetes abbreviations

  • GAD – Glutamic acid decarboxylase (autoantibody)
  • GD – Graves' disease
  • GDM – Gestational diabetes mellitus
  • GH – Growth hormone
  • GHD – Growth hormone deficiency
  • GMI – Glucose management indicator
  • HHS – Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state
  • HPA – Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (axis)
  • ICR – Insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio
  • IDDM – Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
  • IFG – Impaired fasting glucose
  • IGF-1 – Insulin-like growth factor 1

See all 64 endocrinology & diabetes abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.