The renaissance of insulin pump treatment in childhood type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Current goals for the treatment of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus include achieving near-normal blood sugar levels, minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia, optimizing quality of life, and preventing or delaying long-term microvascular and macrovascular complications. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), or insulin pump therapy, provides a treatment option that can assist in the attainment of all of these goals in all ages of children. In pediatric patients, CSII has been demonstrated to reduce both glycosylated hemoglobin levels and frequency of severe hypoglycemia, without sacrifices in safety, quality of life, or weight gain, particularly in conjunction with the use of new insulin analogs and improvements in pump technology. Clinical studies of safety and efficacy of CSII in children are reviewed, as well as criteria for patient selection and practical considerations using pump therapy in youth with T1DM.

Evaluation of the quality of life and satisfaction with the therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes — is Medtronic MiniMed 640G system able to improve it? Preliminary insights

“…It is not only related to unpleasant symptoms but can also frighten pediatric patient and caregivers as well. There are several studies that confirm the reduction of hypoglycemia fear among patients using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion rather than receiving insulin injections [10,11]. According to the results of our survey, MiniMed 640G system helps to reduce the number of hypoglycemia episodes using SmartGuard™ technology.…”

Economic evaluation of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion for children with diabetes - a pilot study: CSII application for children – economic evaluation

“…Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is a treatment option that can assist in achieving all of these goals in all ages of children [4]. European Union countries reimburse insulin therapy for individuals with health insurance, but for CSII reimbursement, a variety of approaches exist [5-7].…”

Relapse of diabetic ketoacidosis secondary to insulin pump malfunction diagnosed by capillary blood 3-hydroxybutyrate: a case report

“…Interest and experience with subcutaneous insulin pump therapy is increasing [13], and practical experience with the management of these patients while hospitalized may be helpful. Multiple triggers for DKA may be present in diabetic children treated with a subcutaneous insulin pump, as in this patient.…”