Monitoring of paediatric type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Purpose of review 

This article reviews recent developments in methods used to monitor paediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D), including an examination of the role of glycated haemoglobin (haemoglobin A1c) and its limitations for long-term assessment of glycaemia in individual patients, self-monitoring of blood glucose, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and ketone monitoring.

Recent findings 

Monitoring of glycemia and ketones, when indicated, is a cornerstone of paediatric T1D management and is essential to optimize glycaemic control. Ongoing technological advancements have led to rapid changes and considerable improvement in the methods used to monitor glucose concentrations in people with T1D. As a result of recent innovations that have enhanced accuracy and usability, CGM is now considered the optimal method for monitoring glucose concentrations and should be introduced soon after diagnosis of T1D.

Summary 

Patients/families and healthcare providers must receive comprehensive education and proper training in the use of CGM and interpretation of the vast amounts of data. Future challenges include ensuring equal access to and optimizing clinical use of CGM to further improve T1D care and outcomes.