Free style optimum neo blood glucose meter

Eleven patients [aged 0.5–5 years (7 M); median age 2 years], who had persistent CHI for more than 6 months (requiring diazoxide therapy) were recruited into this prospective study. The parents were advised to swipe the FSL for glucose readings every time they record the CBG (using Abbott Freestyle optimum neo blood glucose meter). Parents were advised to monitor CBG at least 4 times per day (pre-feed) and manage the hypoglycaemic episodes as per standard clinical care plan based on the CBG reading. As per standard care plan, a low blood glucose value (< 3.5 mmol/l) is rechecked within 10 min and acted upon if still low by administering glucose gel or feed. Each patient was given one sensor; therefore, the maximum duration of possible comparison was 14 days per patient, as the sensor should be replaced after this period. When the sensor was removed, parents were asked to fill a questionnaire that reflects their experience of using the FGMS for checking the blood glucose. Institutional approval was obtained and verbal consent was given by all the parents prior to participation in the study.

Blood samples were collected at the beginning of each period in fasting (overnight) conditions in BD Vacutainer venous collection tubes (cat #67525, Eysins, Vaud. Switzerland). Plasma was obtained by centrifugation (1000× g; 15 min). Plasma insulin was determined using commercial ELISA kits according to the manufacturer’s instructions (Merck-Millipore, Burlington, MS, USA). Fasting and postprandial blood glucose was measured by applying the enzyme electrode method using a Free Style Optimum Neo blood glucose meter from Abbott (Chicago, IL, USA).