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"Use of continuous glucose measurement (CGM) systems and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices adhering to the skin can lead to skin reactions. The objective was to determine the prevalence and consequences of skin reactions to CGM or CSII infusion sites in a large, unbiased population" Diedisheim et al (2023).

Skin reactions associated with dressing adhesives

Abstract:

Objective: Use of continuous glucose measurement (CGM) systems and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices adhering to the skin can lead to skin reactions. The objective was to determine the prevalence and consequences of skin reactions to CGM or CSII infusion sites in a large, unbiased population.

Research design and methods: This is a cross-sectional, multicenter study. All adult patients with diabetes seen in consultation over a period of 7 months and using or having used a system with skin adhesives in the last 10 years were included and filled out a self-assessment questionnaire.

Results: Among 851 patients, skin reaction was reported in 28% with CGM and 29% with CSII. Users reporting reactions were more frequently women for CGM and CSII, and they had type 1 more often than type 2 diabetes for CGM (p<0.001). Manifestations were similar for CGM and CSII reactions: redness and pruritus in 70%-75% of patients with reactions, pain in 20%-25%, vesicles and desquamation in 12%-15%. Manifestations occurred within the first 24 hours of the first use in 22%-24% of CGM and CSII reactions, but after more than 6 months in 38% and 47% of CGM and CSII reactions, respectively. Device use was definitively stopped in 12% of patients with CGM reaction (3.2% of all users), and 7% of CSII reaction (2.1% of all users).

Conclusions: Skin reactions were common, with similar presentations in CGM and CSII users. Manifestations suggested skin irritation rather than allergies. These reactions rarely led to the definitive discontinuation of the use of the device.


Reference:

Diedisheim M, Pecquet C, Julla JB, Carlier A, Potier L, Hartemann A, Jacqueminet S, Vidal-Trecan T, Gautier JF, Dubois Laforgue D, Fagherazzi G, Roussel R, Larger E, Sola A, Riveline JP. Prevalence and description of the skin reactions associated with adhesives in diabetes technology devices in an adult population: results of the CUTADIAB study. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2023 Feb 10. doi: 10.1089/dia.2022.0513. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 36763338.