An unresponsive patient with diabetes is brought to the emergency department with slow, deep respirations. Additional findings include: blood glucose 450 mg/dL (24.9 mmol/L), arterial pH 7.2, and urinalysis showing presence of ketones and glucose. Which of the following statements best describes the underlying cause of this patient's presentation?

This patient is suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) caused by insulin deficiency, which prevents glucose from entering the cells. DKA is life-threatening and requires rapid intervention. Because the cells are not able to receive glucose, the body breaks down fat and muscle for energy. The body releases an counter-regulatory hormones and undergoes lipolysis in an effort to increase glucose, resulting in hyperglycemia, ketogenesis, and acidosis.