Final answer:
Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by the presence of ketone bodies in the blood, while hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome does not have ketones.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by the presence of ketone bodies in the blood, specifically acetoacetic acid, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, and acetone. These ketone bodies are formed when there is a lack of glucose available for energy and the body starts using fatty acids instead. The accumulation of ketone bodies in the blood leads to increased acidity.
On the other hand, hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) is characterized by very high blood glucose levels but without the presence of ketones. This condition occurs when there is enough insulin to prevent ketone production, but not enough to facilitate glucose uptake by cells.