Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy and multiple daily insulin injections in type 1 diabetes mellitus: a comparative overview and future horizons

MDI versus CSII in Chinese adults with type 1 diabetes in a real-world situation: based on propensity score matching method

BACKGROUND

Compared with multiple daily insulin injections (MDI), continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is significantly more expensive and has not been widely used in Chinese type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. So there are still significant knowledge gaps regarding clinical and patient-reported outcomes in China.

AIMS

This study aims to compare the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), insulin therapy related quality of life (ITR-QOL), fear of hypoglycemia (FOH) of adult T1DM patients treated with MDI and CSII based on propensity score matching in real-world conditions in China.

METHODS

Four hundred twenty adult T1DM patients who were treated with MDI or CSII continuously for more than 12 months in a national metabolic center from June 2021 to June 2023 were selected as the study subjects. Their QOL and FOH were evaluated with Insulin Therapy Related Quality of Life Measure Questionnaire-Chinese version (ITR-QOL-CV) and the Chinese Version Hypoglycemia Fear Survey-Worry Scale (CHFSII-WS), and their HbA1C were collected at the same time. Potential confounding variables between the two groups were matched using propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Of the 420 patients included in the study, 315 were in MDI group and 105 were in CSII group. 102 pairs were successfully matched. After matching, the total score of ITR-QOL-CV scale in CSII group was significantly higher than that in MDI group (87.08 ± 13.53 vs. 80.66 ± 19.25, P = 0.006). Among them, the dimensions of daily life, social life, and psychological state were all statistically different (P < 0.05). The scores of CHFSII-WS (8.33 ± 3.49 vs. 11.77 ± 5.27, P = 0.003) and HbA1C (7.19 ± 1.33% vs. 7.71 ± 1.93%, P = 0.045) in CSII group were lower than those in MDI group.

CONCLUSIONS

25.0% of T1DM adults are treated with CSII. Compared with adult T1DM patients treated with MDI, those treated with CSII have higher ITR-QOL, less FoH, and better control of HbA1C in real-world conditions in China. Therefore, regardless of economic factors, CSII is recommended for adult T1DM patients to optimize the therapeutic effect and outcomes.

Does Insulin Delivery Technology Change Our Relationship with Foods? A Scoping Review

Introduction: Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems reduce burden and improve glycemic management for people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) by automatically adjusting insulin as a response to measured glucose levels. There is a lack of evidence on AID and nutrition variables such as dietary intake, eating behaviors, and disordered eating. Objectives: This scoping review aims to provide a summary of the literature regarding AID and nutrition variables and to identify gaps that require further investigation. Methods: Two researchers conducted a blinded search of Medline (OVID) and PubMed for studies, including AID use (compared to non-AID use) and nutrition variables. Studies from January 2000 to July 2023 were included, as were PwT1D of all ages. Results: A total of 3132 articles were screened for appropriateness. After exclusions, 7 studies were included (2017-2023): 4 qualitative, 1 crossover, 1 randomized controlled, and 1 observational. Studies included adolescents (n = 1), adults (n = 3) or both (n = 2), and all ages (n = 1). In quantitative studies, AID was associated with lower eating distress (-0.43 ± 0.12, P = 0.004) and higher quality of life (3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.8-5.4, P = 0.01), but not grams of carbohydrates at meals (1.0; 95% CI: -0.7 to 3.0; P = 0.24) and snacks (0.004; 95% CI: -0.8 to 0.8; P = 0.99) compared to non-AID use. In qualitative studies, AID increased the frequency and portions of food intake and led to less dietary control from parents. AID users reported eating foods higher in energy density. PwT1D were less worried about achieving accurate carbohydrate counting (CC) when using AID. Conclusions: AID use appears to influence eating behaviors, dietary patterns, and CC, although evidence was limited. AID may reduce food management burden due to the perception that AID can correct for CC inaccuracy. Significance: Further research needs to determine if AID allows for simplification of CC and improves eating behaviors while maintaining glycemic stability.

Comparison of the Sensor-Augmented Pump System with the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop Delivery System: Quality of Life, Diabetes Distress, and Glycaemic Outcomes in a Real-Life Context

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) is a chronic disease that requires exogenous insulin administration and intensive management to prevent any complications. Recent innovations in T1D management technologies include the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop delivery system (AHCL). The pioneer AHCL system provides automated basal and automated bolus corrections when needed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop (AHCL) system and the Sensor-Augmented Pump (SAP) with Predictive Low Glucose Management (PLGM) system, in relation to glycaemic outcomes, general and diabetes-related Quality of Life (QoL), and diabetes distress.

METHODS

General and diabetes-related QoL were assessed with the Diabetes Quality of Life Brief Clinical Inventory (DQOL-BCI) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF), respectively. Diabetes distress was assessed with the Diabetes Distress Scale for Type 1 diabetes (T1-DDS).

RESULTS

Eighty-nine T1D adults participated in the study, mostly females (65.2%), with a mean age of 39.8 (± 11.5 years). They had on average 23 years of diabetes (± 10.7) and they were on continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy. Significant differences favoring the AHCL over the SAP + PLGM system were demonstrated by lower mean glucose levels, less time above range, lower scores on DQOL-BCI, T1-DDS, and higher scores on WHOQOL-BREF. Finally, the linear regression models revealed the association of time in range in most of the above aspects.

CONCLUSION

This study highlighted the advantages of the AHCL system over the SAP + PLGM system in the real-world setting in relation to general and diabetes-related QoL, diabetes distress, and glycaemic outcomes.

Ultrasound Detected Subcutaneous Changes in a Pediatric Cohort After Initiation of a New Insulin Pump or Glucose Sensor

Objective: This study examined subcutaneous tissue changes at sites used by continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and tested whether these changes, if any, were associated with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Research Design and Methods: This prospective study investigated recently used CSII or CGM sites in 161 children and adolescents during the first year after initiation of a new diabetes device. Subcutaneous changes such as echogenicity, vascularization, and the distance from the skin surface to the muscle at CSII and CGM sites were assessed by ultrasound. Results: The distance from skin surface to muscle fascia at both the upper arm and abdomen was influenced by age, body mass index z-score, and sex. Especially in boys and the youngest, the depth of many devices outreached the mean distance. The mean distance for boys at the abdomen and upper arm ranged from 4.5-6.5 mm and 5-6.9 mm for all ages, respectively. Hyperechogenicity at CGM sites was 4.3% after 12 months. The frequency of subcutaneous hyperechogenicity and vascularization at CSII sites increased significantly over time (41.2% to 69.3% and 2% to 16% respectively, P < 0.001 and P = 0.009). Hyperechogenicity in the subcutis was not a predictor of elevated HbA1c (P = 0.11). Conclusion: There is large variation in the distance from the skin surface to the muscle fascia and many diabetes devices reach even deeper. Hyperechogenicity and vascularization increased significantly over time at CSII sites, but not CGM sites. The importance of hyperechogenicity for insulin absorption is unclear and further investigations are needed. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT04258904.

Impact of glycaemic technologies on quality of life and related outcomes in adults with type 1 diabetes: A narrative review

AIMS

To explore the association between the use of glycaemic technologies and person-reported outcomes (PROs) in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

We included T1D and technology publications reporting on PROs since 2014. Only randomised controlled trials and cohort studies that used validated PRO measures (PROMs) were considered.

RESULTS

T1D studies reported on a broad range of validated PROMs, mainly as secondary outcome measures. Most studies examined continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM), and the role of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), including sensor-augmented CSII and closed loop systems. Generally, studies demonstrated a positive impact of technology on hypoglycaemia-specific and diabetes-specific PROs, including reduced fear of hypoglycaemia and diabetes distress, and greater satisfaction with diabetes treatment. In contrast, generic PROMs (including measures of health/functional status, emotional well-being, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality) were less likely to demonstrate improvements associated with the use of glycaemic technologies. Several studies showed contradictory findings, which may relate to study design, population and length of follow-up. Differences in PRO findings were apparent between randomised controlled trials and cohort studies, which may be due to different populations studied and/or disparity between trial and real-world conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

PROs are usually assessed as secondary outcomes in glycaemic technology studies. Hypoglycaemia-specific and diabetes-specific, but not generic, PROs show the benefits of glycaemic technologies, and deserve a more central role in future studies as well as routine clinical care.

Advanced Formulations/Drug Delivery Systems for Subcutaneous Delivery of Protein-Based Biotherapeutics

Multiple advanced formulations and drug delivery systems (DDSs) have been developed to deliver protein-based biotherapeutics via the subcutaneous (SC) route. These formulations/DDSs include high-concentration solution, co-formulation of two or more proteins, large volume injection, protein cluster/complex, suspension, nanoparticle, microparticle, and hydrogel. These advanced systems provide clinical benefits related to efficacy and safety, but meanwhile, have more complicated formulations and manufacturing processes compared to conventional solution formulations. To develop a fit-for-purpose formulation/DDS for SC delivery, scientists need to consider multiple factors, such as the primary indication, targeted site, immunogenicity, compatibility, biopharmaceutics, patient compliance, etc. Next, they need to develop appropriate formulation (s) and manufacturing processes using the QbD principle and have a control strategy. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of advanced formulations/DDSs recently developed for SC delivery of proteins, as well as some knowledge gaps and potential strategies to narrow them through future research.

Comparison of three insulin bolus calculators to increase time in range of glycemia in a group of poorly controlled adults Type 1 diabetes in a Brazilian public health service

BACKGROUND

A main factor contributing to insufficient glycemic control, during basal/bolus insulin therapy, is poor self-management bolus. Insulin bolus administration frequency is strongly associated with glycated hemoglobin (A1c) in Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). In the present study, we analyzed the performance of two-bolus calculator's software that could be accessible to T1D patients from a Public Health Service to improve glycemic time in range (TIR) and A1c.

METHODS

This prospective, controlled, randomized, parallel intervention clinical trial was carried out with 111 T1D participants on basal/bolus therapy [multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) or subcutaneous infusion pump (CSII)] with basal A1c ≥ 8.5% for 24 weeks. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 2 interventions: COMBO^® (bolus calculator) and GLIC (mobile application) and 1 control (CSII group). Anthropometrics and metabolic variables were assessed on basal, 3 and 6 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

TIR was increased in 9.42% in COMBO group (29 ± 12% to 38.9 ± 12.7%; p < 0.001) in 8.39% in the GLIC® group (28 ± 15% to 36.6 ± 15.1%; p < 0.001) while remained stable in CSII group (40 ± 11% to 39.3 ± 10.3%). A1c decrease in 1.08% (p < 0.001), 0.64% (p < 0.001) and 0.38% (p = 0.01) at 6 months in relation to basal in the COMBO, GLIC and CSII respectively. Daily basal insulin dose was reduced by 8.8% (p = 0.01) in the COMBO group.

CONCLUSION

The COMBO and a mobile applicative (GLIC) bolus calculator had a similar and a good performance to optimize the intensive insulin treatment of T1D in the public health system with increase in the TIR and reduction in A1C without increase hypoglycemia prevalence.

Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the quality of life of Type 1 diabetes patients using insulin pumps and of those receiving multiple daily insulin injections

Introduction

Insulin pump therapy represents an alternative to multiple daily injections and can improve glycemic control and quality of life (QoL) in Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. We aimed to explore the differences and factors related to the T1DM-specific QoL of such patients in Latvia.

Design and methods

A mixed-method cross-sectional study on 87 adult T1DM patients included 20 pump users and 67 users of injections who participated in the quantitative part of the study; 8 pump users and 13 injection users participated in the qualitative part. Patients were invited to participate using a dedicated digital platform. Their QoL and self-management habits were assessed using specially developed questionnaires adapted to Latvian conditions. Multiple logistic regression models were built to investigate the association between social and self-management factors and patients’ QoL. In addition, qualitative analysis of answers was performed.

Results

Insulin pump users were younger, had higher incomes, and reported higher T1DM expenses than users of multiple daily injections. There were no differences in self-management between the groups; Total QoL differed at the 0.1 significance level. In fully adjusted multiple logistic regression models, the most important factor that increased Total QoL was lower T1DM-related expenses (odds ratio, OR 7.02 [95% confidence interval 1.29; 38.0]). Men and those with more years of living with T1DM had better QoL (OR 9.62 [2.20; 42.1] and OR 1.16 [1.05; 1.29], respectively), but the method of administration was not significantly associated with QoL (OR 7.38 [0.87; 62.9]). Qualitative data supported the results of quantitative analysis.

Conclusions

QoL was the main reason to use an insulin pump, while the expense was the main reason to avoid the use of it or to stop using it. Reimbursement policies thus should be considered to enable patients to choose the more convenient method for themselves.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12955-022-02029-2.

Technological Developments and Quality of Life in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Review of the Modern Insulin Analogues, Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Insulin Pump Therapy

BACKGROUND

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune disease, which is characterized by an increased prevalence worldwide, which, in fact, tends to take extensive dimensions. The recent rapid development of science and technology has significantly contributed to the improvement of the management of type 1 diabetes mellitus, both in achieving the required euglycaemic regulation and reducing the psychological burden associated with the disease, consequently improving the quality of life of the patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

A literature review from 2010, related to the contribution of the modern insulin analogues, continuous glucose monitoring and the insulin pump, was performed using Scopus, ScienceDirect and PubMed databases.

RESULTS

Studies included in the review support a direct and indirect association of technological innovations with the quality of life. The use of type 1 diabetes mellitus technology was negatively associated with the frequency of the hypoglycaemias and the value of the glycosylated hemoglobin, while at the same time, the development and use of the related technology were highly associated with an improvement in the quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Patients' quality of life is an indicator of the management of type 1 diabetes mellitus, and it is just as important as glycaemic regulation. Through this review, it was concluded that a better quality of life of T1DM patients was associated with the improvement of glycosylated hemoglobin and hypoglycemic episodes.

Impact of OMNIPOD® on the quality of life of adolescents with type 1 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Several pediatric studies have demonstrated that therapy using a conventional insulin pump improves glycemic control and quality of life. At the beginning of this study, a new tubeless insulin pump, Omnipod®, had recently been marketed in France.

OBJECTIVES

Analyze the response of adolescents treated with multiple injections to the proposal to use this new medical device and compare both the quality of life and the glycemic control of adolescents according to their choice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a prospective, observational study of adolescents aged 10-17 years who had type 1 diabetes for more than 1 year, all treated with multi-injection insulin delivery according to a basal-bolus regimen. They were separated into three groups: group A choosing to use the Omnipod® system, group B taking the time to think before making a decision, and group C choosing to keep their multi-injection therapy. The three groups were compared according to their quality of life with validated tools and glycemic control.

RESULTS

Groups were formed with 30 (25%) patients in group A, 55 patients (45%) in group B, and 36 patients (30%) in group C. As to the WHO Well-Being Index, no significant difference appeared in the study for the patients in the three groups. An increased treatment satisfaction score was found, evolving from 3.79 ± 0.68 to 4.36 ± 0.56, p = 0.002 (group A) and from 3.87 ± 0.7 to 4.16 ± 0.7, p = 0.032 (group B), with no significant change for group C (from 4.39 ± 0.6 to 4.31 ± 0.62, p = 0.582). The wish to change treatment score improved for group A (from 4.14 ± 0.88 to 1.68 ± 0.9; p < 0.001) and group B (from 3.51 ± 1.05 to 1.84 ± 1; p < 0.001), with no significant change for group C (from 1.81 ± 0 0.98 to 1.61 ± 0.8; p = 0.432). There was no significant difference regarding HbA1c rates in the three groups.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in quality-of-life scores between adolescents who chose to switch from multiple injection to the tubeless patch pump and those who retained multi-injection treatment, but increased satisfaction was observed in the former group.

The Lived Experience of Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Phenomenological Inquiry

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is a complex, medical device for the management of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). There is limited research exploring the everyday experiences living with this device. The purpose of this study was to understand the lived experience of adults using CSII therapy to manage T1DM. Lived experiences from eight individuals were collected through semi-structured interviews and then analyzed using a hermeneutic approach to phenomenology. Four substantive themes with supporting subthemes were identified and represent the essence of participant experiences; that is, living with CSII eventually took ascendancy over managing T1DM.CSII therapy has gained popularity due to reported improvements in metabolic control and flexibility. However, the burden of the responsibility and psychological implications of CSII took ascendancy over T1DM. Living with CSII impacts the psychological well-being of individuals so psychological complications are as important to assess by healthcare professionals as physical and metabolic complications.

Personality Traits, Metabolic Control and the Use of Insulin Pump Functions in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: An Observational Single-Visit Study

INTRODUCTION

While a few studies have assessed the association between personality and metabolic outcomes in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), there have been none in adults or in subjects treated with insulin pumps, and hypoglycaemic episodes have not been considered in these studies. The aim of this observational single-visit study was to assess the association between personality traits and metabolic control, hypoglycaemic episodes and insulin pump use in adult T1DM patients.

METHODS

Data were obtained from 52 adults with T1DM treated in a tertiary care centre (no complications or comorbidities; aged 27 ± 8 years; diabetes duration of 12.8 ± 6.8 years; treated with insulin pumps for 6.3 ± 0.4 years). "Big Five" personality traits (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness and conscientiousness) were assessed using the NEO-Five Factor Inventory questionnaire. Data on HbA_1c, blood glucose levels, frequency of glucose testing, the number of hypoglycaemic episodes (< 3.9 mmol/l), basal and prandial insulin doses, and the number and types of boluses in the last 14 days were obtained from the insulin pumps and glucometers.

RESULTS

The mean levels of the assessed parameters were: HbA_1c 7.2 ± 1.2% (55.0 ± 13.1 mmol/mol), episodes of hypoglycaemia 7.0 (3.00-9.75) and glucose tests per day 7.3 ± 3.9. All personality traits showed average intensity. None of the traits were associated with HbA_1c, glycaemia, number of glucose tests, or number or kind of insulin boluses. Conscientiousness was the only factor associated with the incidence of hypoglycaemia in both univariate (r =  + 0.46, p < 0.001) and multivariate (β =  + 0.41, p < 0.001) analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite results reported for children and adolescents, personality traits of adult patients with T1DM were not essential for metabolic control assessed by HbA_1c or for the use of insulin pump functions; however, higher conscientiousness may be related to more frequent hypoglycaemic episodes. Extrinsic factors should be searched as more relevant for metabolic control and proper use of very expensive insulin pump therapy.

Cost of Treating Skin Problems in Patients with Diabetes Who Use Insulin Pumps and/or Glucose Sensors

Background: The use of insulin pump and glucose sensor is advantageous, but unfortunately many experience skin problems. To reduce or overcome skin problems, patients use additional products or change their sets preterm. Therefore, the aim was to investigate costs related to skin problems. Materials and Methods: Two hundred sixty-three patients from four different hospitals in Denmark participated in a cross-sectional survey about skin problems related to insulin pump and/or glucose sensor use. Additional costs aside technology and diabetes treatment were calculated based on adhesives, patches, lotion, and preterm shifts of infusion or sensor sets due to skin problems. Descriptive statistics and linear regression were used. Results: The total costs for all these expenses were 11493.9 U.S. dollars (USD) in 145 pediatric patients and 4843 USD in 118 adult patients. The costs were higher in patients with, than without, skin problems and for skin problems due to the glucose sensor compared with insulin pump. Pediatric patients with eczema and/or wound due to the glucose sensor did cost 154.3 USD more, than patients without these skin problems (P < 0.01). We found a clear dose/response relationship between costs and severity of skin problems, especially in pediatric patients. Conclusions: Our data show that skin problems due to use of insulin pump and/or glucose sensor have significant costs on the Danish welfare system. This leaves an economic incentive for developing more skin-sensitive adhesive for the infusion set and sensors, at least for a certain subgroup of patients.

Psychosocial aspects of diabetes technology

AIM

To identify key psychosocial research in the domain of diabetes technology.

RESULTS

Four trajectories of psychosocial diabetes technology research are identified that characterize research over the past 25 years. Key evidence is reviewed on psychosocial outcomes of technology use as well as psychosocial barriers and facilitating conditions of diabetes technology uptake. Psychosocial interventions that address modifiable barriers and psychosocial factors have proven to be effective in improving glycaemic and self-reported outcomes in diabetes technology users.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychosocial diabetes technology research is essential for designing interventions and education programmes targeting the person with diabetes to facilitate optimized outcomes associated with technology uptake. Psychosocial aspects of diabetes technology use and related research will be even more important in the future given the advent of systems for automated insulin delivery and the increasingly widespread digitalization of diabetes care.

High Prevalence of Skin Reactions Among Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Using New Technologies: The Alarming Role of Colophonium

In the past few years, the increasing use of devices for diabetes treatment, such as continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps, flash glucose monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring systems, sensor-augmented pumps, and automated insulin delivery devices, has resulted in important improvements in disease management. Meanwhile, the longer a patient uses a device, the greater the likelihood of developing a skin reaction. Allergic contact dermatitis is the most frequently described skin side effect caused by adhesive tapes contained in the insulin infusion sets or glucose sensor sets and used to connect these devices to the body. We describe 18 patients, followed up at our Pediatric Diabetes Centre, who experienced dermatological complications due to diabetes device use from January 2018 to December 2018. All the patients were patch tested with allergens from a "standard" series and from a "plastics and glues" series. Patch tests resulted positive in 66.7% of patients. Colophonium was the most frequently isolated sensitizing allergen (41.1% of cases). It is a complex mixture of >100 compounds derived from pine trees. Colophonium is commonly used, in both unmodified and modified forms, as a fast-acting adhesive for industrial, medical, or other commercial uses. Its presence in the adhesive of the insulin sets and glucose sensors was confirmed by the manufacturer of some devices brand. On the basis of our results, we stress the importance of contacting manufacturers for product information. We also highlight that there should be stricter legal restrictions to label medical adhesives, even if only small amounts of colophonium are used.

Insulin Distribution in Human Adipose Tissue via a Novel Insulin Infusion Catheter

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is a widely used treatment for diabetes patients. Insulin infusion sets (CSII-catheters) are continuously optimized regarding size, handling and safety, but recurring dysfunction (kinking or occlusion), due to different user situations, behavior or chain of events, demand new ways to improve the functionality and safety in patients experiencing these issues. A novel CSII-catheter design (Lantern) features additional lateral perforations, which guarantee functionality even in case of kinking or occlusion. This study aimed to compare functionality, insulin distribution, and failure rate of Lantern and standard catheters using excised human adipose tissue samples. Novel Lantern CSII-catheters (open and artificially occluded) and commercially available standard CSII-catheters were inserted into adipose tissue samples. A mixture of insulin and contrast agent was infused as single bolus (7 IU) with an insulin infusion pump at highest flow rate (1 IU/s). Microtomography images and surface-to-volume ratios were used to assess insulin distribution and depot volume indicating the functionality of CSII-catheters. Failure rate was measured by flow-stop alerts of the pump. We found no difference in the volume of insulin depots compared with the nominal volume of 70 μL. Surface-to-volume ratios showed no significant difference among CSII-catheters. None of the catheters triggered any flow-stop alarm. The novel Lantern CSII-catheter design achieved similar insulin distribution as commercially available CSII-catheters. Moreover, functionality of Lantern CSII-catheters was guaranteed during occlusion, which is an improvement compared with standard CSII-catheters. We conclude that the novel CSII-catheter design has the potential to provide a valuable contribution to patient well-being and safety.

Levels of Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes in Relation to the Healthy Comparators and to the Method of Insulin Therapy Used

Given the fact that physical exertion leads to blood glucose fluctuations, type one diabetes mellitus (T1D) may potentially constitute a barrier for obtaining a sufficient amount of exercise. The main purpose of the study was to compare the level of physical activity between children with T1D (n = 215) and healthy controls (n = 115) and to assess the physical activity of the study group in relation to the applied method of insulin therapy, i.e., the use of insulin pen vs. insulin pump. The level of physical activity was assessed with a hip-worn tri-axial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) used by the subjects for an uninterrupted period of seven days. Children with T1D had significantly lower median values of total time of moderate (213.3 vs. 272.1 min), vigorous (135.3 vs. 19.6 min) and moderate-to-vigorous (347.4 vs. 467.4 min) physical activity compared to healthy peers respectively, (p < 0.001) in all cases. In addition, the total median number of steps was significantly lower (53,631 vs. 67,542 steps), (p < 0.001). The method of insulin therapy was not associated with significant differences in physical activity level (p > 0.001). The level of physical activity in children and adolescents with T1D is lower than in their healthy peers and does not depend on the insulin therapy method.

Accuracy of Bolus and Basal Rate Delivery of Different Insulin Pump Systems

BACKGROUND

Insulin pumps are used for basal rate and bolus insulin delivery in patients with diabetes. In this in vitro study, accuracy of delivery of different commercial insulin pumps was evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Accuracy of 10 different insulin pump systems (5 durable pumps with different insulin infusion sets and 1 patch pump) was tested with a microgravimetric method. Mean bolus accuracy of 25 successive 1 U boluses and of 12 successive 10 U boluses was assessed, and delivery time for 10 U boluses was measured. Basal rate accuracy at 1.0 U/h was evaluated for 72 h and for individual 1-h windows.

RESULTS

Mean bolus delivery was within ±5% of target for both tested bolus sizes, but precision of individual boluses was higher with the larger boluses. Delivery times varied between the different pump models but agreed with the specifications of the respective manufacturers. Regarding basal rate accuracy, the total deviation for 72 h was very small in all pumps; however, larger deviations were observed during the first 12 h. For the patch pump, large variations between individual 1-h windows were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In general, all compared insulin pump systems showed a similar level of accuracy. Differences, especially between durable pumps and the patch pump, were observed when considering each hour of basal rate delivery separately.

Perceptions and experiences of adult patients with type 1 diabetes using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy: Results of an online survey

AIMS

To assess perceptions of patients using subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) about metabolic control, pump malfunctions, technical and insertion site adverse events (AEs) related to infusion sets/catheters as well as patients' practices.

METHODS

Online survey (from June 2016 to January 2017) using an actualized 39-item questionnaire directed to adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using CSII therapy and living in the province of Quebec, Canada.

RESULTS

Participants with T1D (n = 115, 72% females, 39.7 ± 14.0 years, diabetes duration: 20.9 ± 12.2 years, CSII use: 6.2 ± 4.1 years) adequately completed the survey. Infusion sets were changed every 3.3 ± 0.9 day. Improved glucose control and decreased number/severity of hypoglycemic episodes were reported by 80% and 68%/50% of subjects, respectively. Over the past year of CSII use, participants perceived no increase in anxiety/worry (84%), no negative impact on life (89%) or on time off from work/school (82%). Conversely, many experienced at least one clinical AEs at insertion site [pain (84%), adhesion (76%), irritation (69%), lipodystrophy (45%)] and technical issues [blockage (52%), cannula kinking (50%), pump stop (55%), air bubbles (46%)]. No significant association was observed between catheter wear-time and AEs. All participants had one or more problems related to CSII use, although only 37% reported addressing these issues with health professionals.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that patients positively perceived CSII use although they experienced a high frequency of clinical and technical AEs. This warrants further attention by health professionals, investigators and manufacturers to optimize CSII therapy.

Artificial Pancreas or Novel Beta-Cell Replacement Therapies: a Race for Optimal Glycemic Control?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

New treatment strategies are needed for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Closed loop insulin delivery and beta-cell replacement therapy are promising new strategies. This review aims to give an insight in the most relevant literature on this topic and to compare the two radically different treatment modalities.

RECENT FINDINGS

Multiple clinical studies have been performed with closed loop insulin delivery devices and have shown an improvement in overall glycemic control and time spent in hypoglycemia. Beta-cell transplantation has been shown to normalize or greatly improve glycemic control in T1D, but the donor organ shortage and the necessity to use immunosuppressive agents are major drawbacks. Donor organ shortage may be solved by the utilization of stem cell-derived beta cells, which has shown great promise in animal models and are now tested in clinical studies. Immunosuppression may be avoided by encapsulation. Closed loop insulin delivery devices are promising treatment strategies and are likely to be used in clinical practice in the short term. But this approach will always suffer from delays in glucose measurement and insulin action preventing it from normalizing glycemic control. In the long term, stem cell-derived beta cell transplantation may be able to achieve this, but wide implementation in clinical practice is still far away.

Skin Problems Associated with Insulin Pumps and Sensors in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

In the future, widespread use of closed-loop infusion (artificial pancreas) systems to treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) may significantly improve glycemic control and enhance treatment flexibility. However, the infusion sets and plasters necessary for these treatments can cause dermatological complications that may hamper the spread of the new technology; few studies have investigated these complications in adults. The aim of this study was to describe the dermatological complications associated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in adults.

METHODS

A total of 118 adult patients from two different diabetes clinics completed a questionnaire concerning the dermatological complications associated with their CSII and/or CGM treatment, other treatment variables, duration of diabetes, allergies, skin care, and other pathologies.

RESULTS

CGM or CSII use was associated with current eczema, scars, and wounds. In total, 34% of CSII users and 35% of CGM users currently had one or more skin lesions due to the use of these devices. We found no significant association with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, a history of atopic dermatitis, or other skin pathologies. However, multivariate analysis revealed associations with a history of atopy and CSII-associated dermatological complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Dermatological complications were present in one in every three patients and represent a significant challenge to using CSII and CGM to treat adults with T1D. Prospective studies on the causes of these complications will be required to develop preventive strategies and ensure that optimal diabetes treatment approaches that take advantage of the latest technology can be implemented.

High frequencies of dermatological complications in children using insulin pumps or sensors

BACKGROUND

Dermatological complications in children and adolescents that are related to continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) have not been well-characterized. This study examined the prevalence and characteristics of different types of dermatological complications.

METHODS

Online questionnaires regarding dermatological complications related to CSII and/or CGM were returned from a total of 144 children and adolescents, aged 2 to 20 years. Both previous and current skin problems were reported along with their clinical characteristics. Descriptive statistics, χ² tests, and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the data.

RESULTS

Of 143 patients using CSII, 90% had previous and 63% reported current dermatological complications. Non-specific eczema was most frequently reported and was currently present in 25.7% of the patients. These results were independent of age and current CGM use. Among the 76 patients using CGM, 46% reported current dermatological complications. A history of atopy was associated with dermatological complications in individuals using CSII, but not CGM. The patients rated CGM-related dermal issues as significantly worse than those associated with CSII (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Dermatological complications can be a serious problem in treating pediatric and adolescent patients of all ages with CSII and/or CGM. Only a few clinical characteristics associated with these complications were identified in this study, highlighting the need for prospective studies that might lead to improvements in the prevention and treatment of dermatological problems.

The Benefits and Limits of Technological Advances in Glucose Management Around Physical Activity in Patients Type 1 Diabetes

Physical activity is highly recommended for patients living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) due to its varied health benefits. Nevertheless, glucose management, during and in the hours following exercise, represents a great challenge for these patients who most often end up leading a sedentary life style. Important technological advances in insulin delivery devices and glucose monitoring are now available and continue to progress. These technologies could be used to alleviate glucose management related to physical activity in T1D. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) helps patients observe the trends of glycemic fluctuations when exercising and in the following night to deal pre-emptively with hypoglycemic risks and treat hypoglycemic episodes in a timely manner. Insulin pumps offer the flexibility of adjusting insulin basal rates and boluses according to patient's specific needs around exercise. The artificial pancreas links CGM to pump through an intelligent hormone dosing algorithm to close the loop of glucose control and has thus the potential to ease the burden of exercise in T1D. This review will examine and discuss the literature related to physical activity practice using each of these technologies. The aim is to discuss their benefits as well as their limitations and finally the additional research needed in the future to optimize their use in T1D.

Finding the right route for insulin delivery - an overview of implantable pump therapy

INTRODUCTION

Implantable pump therapy adopting the intraperitoneal route of insulin delivery has been available for the past three decades. The key rationale for implantable pump therapy is the restoration of the portal-peripheral insulin gradient of the normal physiology. Uptake in clinical practice is limited to specialized centers and selected patient populations. Areas covered: Implantable pump therapy is discussed, including technical aspects, rationale for its use, and glycemic and non-glycemic effects. Target populations, summaries of clinical studies and issues related to implantable pump therapy are highlighted. Limitations of implantable pump therapy and its future outlook in clinical practice are presented. Expert opinion: Although intraperitoneal insulin delivery appears closer to the normal physiology, technical, pharmacological, and costs barriers prevent a wider adoption. Evidence from clinical studies remains scarce and inconclusive. As a consequence, the use of implantable pump therapy will be confined to a small population unless considerable technological progress is made and well-conducted studies can demonstrate glycemic and/or non-glycemic benefits justifying wider application.

Analysis of "Randomized Cross-Over Study Comparing Two Infusion Sets for CSII in Daily Life"

In an article in Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, Freckmann et al report an evaluation of 2 infusion sets used for CSII in daily life, both from Roche. Because the 2 catheters differed at the soft cannula level in terms of geometry and introducer needle, focus was made on pain at insertion. While no significant difference was noted on this primary endpoint, unplanned catheter changes occurred in close to 20% of cases also with both catheter models, mainly driven by apparent insulin delivery issues. Since kinked cannulas were not frequent, there is a clear need for better understanding of "unexplained hyperglycemia" as the main reason for reduction of catheter lifetime. Fixing this weak aspect of CSII becomes crucial while moving toward closed-loop insulin delivery.

Pharmacological properties of faster-acting insulin aspart vs insulin aspart in patients with type 1 diabetes receiving continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion: A randomized, double-blind, crossover trial

AIM

To evaluate the pharmacological characteristics of faster-acting insulin aspart (faster aspart) compared with insulin aspart (IAsp) during continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII).

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, 48 men and women aged 18 to 64 years with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) received faster aspart and IAsp as a 0.15 U/kg bolus dose via CSII, on top of a basal rate (0.02 U/kg/h), in a glucose clamp setting (target 5.5 mmol/L).

RESULTS

After a CSII bolus dose, the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic profiles for faster aspart were left-shifted compared with those for IAsp. For faster aspart vs IAsp, the early glucose-lowering effect (area under the curve for glucose infusion rate [GIR]0-30min ) was approximately 2-fold higher (least squares means 24.9 vs 11.4 mg/kg; estimated ratio faster aspart/IAsp 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.33; 5.04]; P = .002), onset of glucose-lowering effect (time to early 50% of maximum GIR) occurred 11.1 minutes earlier (41.1 vs 52.3 minutes; 95% CI faster aspart - IAsp [-15.4; -6.9]; P<.001), and offset of glucose-lowering effect (time to late 50% of maximum GIR) occurred 24.0 minutes earlier (214.7 vs 238.7 minutes; 95% CI [-38.9; -9.1]; P=.002). Likewise, significantly greater early exposure and significantly earlier onset and offset of exposure were observed for faster aspart vs IAsp. Faster aspart and IAsp were both well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T1DM using CSII, faster aspart better mimics the endogenous prandial insulin secretion and action than does IAsp. Faster aspart therefore has the potential to provide clinical benefits over current rapid-acting insulins in the insulin pump setting.

The Effect of Retraining on Treatment Success, Quality of Life, and Metabolic Parameters in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Using an Insulin Pump

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of insulin pump user retraining on treatment success, quality of life, and metabolic parameters of patients with type 1 diabetes using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 35 subjects participated in this prospective study. All patients were given insulin pump user retraining. Their knowledge level and application skills, metabolic parameters, quality of life, and satisfaction from treatment were evaluated at baseline and after 6 months.

RESULTS

There was significant improvement in patients' knowledge and application skills after insulin pump user retraining (self-assessment of user skills: 69.7 ± 11.5 vs. 76.3 ± 11.3, p < 0.001; knowledge level on technical issues: 3.3 ± 1.1 vs. 4.1 ± 1.8, p = 0.003; glucose monitoring: 27.1 ± 5.8 vs. 29.2 ± 5.6, p = 0.006; management of hyperglycemia: 13.1 ± 3.2 vs. 15.7 ± 3.4, p < 0.001; management of pump and infusion site problems: 8.8 ± 2.6 vs. 10.6 ± 2.6, p = 0.001). Hemoglobin (Hb)A1c levels of patients with poor glycemic control improved after retraining (8.61% ± 0.78 vs. 8.23% ± 0.79, p = 0.02). However, no significant improvement in quality of life and treatment satisfaction parameters were found.

CONCLUSION

Management of type 1 diabetes in insulin pump users can be significantly improved by retraining. Even a basic short-term retraining program helps patients to increase their knowledge level and ability to more effectively use the insulin pump. The fact that retraining significantly improves glycemic parameters in patients with poor metabolic control indicates that priority should be given to this group of patients. Further studies with individualized training programs in larger sample sizes with long-term follow-up are needed to establish the importance of retraining and create re-education plans for patients with type 1 diabetes using an insulin pump.

Frequency of Lipohypertrophy and Associated Risk Factors in Young Patients with Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency of lipohypertrophy (LH) and the associated risk factors in young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 174 patients with T1DM (aged 13-18 years) treated with multiple daily insulin injections for a minimum duration of 1 year. The study was performed at the Diabetes Treatment Center, Prince Sultan Military Medical City (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), between July 2015 and September 2015. Information regarding patients' age, weight, height, adjusted body mass index (BMI), period of the diabetic condition, length of needle used, number of injections per day, injection locations, insulin regimen, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were recorded. LH was assessed using the palpation technique.

RESULTS

Nearly 46% of patients were found to reuse needles, while 42.5% failed to alternate the injection site and 23% revealed unexplained hypoglycemic events. A substantial percentage of patients (approximately 47%) showed grade 1 LH, followed by 33.7% with grade 2 and 19.3% with grade 3 LH. A higher frequency of LH was observed in the thigh region (n = 28, 33.7%) than in the arm, which was second highest (n = 23, 27.7%). Patients aged ≥16 years showed a higher frequency of LH than those aged <16 years. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus had a greater likelihood of having LH (59.5%) than those with controlled diabetes (20.8%). Significant differences in LH were observed based on needle length, needle reuse, and rotation of the injection sites. On performing regression analysis, the independent risk factors for LH were found to be as follows: higher BMI, higher HbA1c, a higher number of injection sites, a higher rate of needle reuse and failed to alternate the injection site.

CONCLUSION

As the frequency of LH was found to be high in Saudi patients with T1DM, it is essential to educate patients on the risk factors for LH and on diabetic control.

Impact of the Type of Continuous Insulin Administration on Metabolism in a Diabetic Rat Model

Exogenous insulin is the only treatment available for type 1 diabetic patients and is mostly administered by subcutaneous (SC) injection in a basal and bolus scheme using insulin pens (injection) or pumps (preimplanted SC catheter). Some divergence exists between these two modes of administration, since pumps provide better glycaemic control compared to injections in humans. The aim of this study was to compare the impacts of two modes of insulin administration (single injections of long-acting insulin or pump delivery of rapid-acting insulin) at the same dosage (4 IU/200 g/day) on rat metabolism and tissues. The rat weight and blood glucose levels were measured periodically after treatment. Immunostaining for signs of oxidative stress and for macrophages was performed on the liver and omental tissues. The continuous insulin delivery by pumps restored normoglycaemia, which induced the reduction of both reactive oxygen species and macrophage infiltration into the liver and omentum. Injections controlled the glucose levels for only a short period of time and therefore tissue stress and inflammation were elevated. In conclusion, the insulin administration mode has a crucial impact on rat metabolic parameters, which has to be taken into account when studies are designed.