Sensor-augmented pump therapy in very young children with type 1 diabetes : an efficacy and feasibility observational study

BACKGROUND: Efficacy and feasibility of sensor-augmented pump (SAP) therapy were evaluated in very young children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: SAP (Dexcom [San Diego, CA] Seven Plus™ usage combined with insulin pump) therapy was retrospectively evaluated in 28 children (15 boys) younger than 7 years (mean age, 5.8 ± 1.2 years; range, 3-7 years), with T1D. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was evaluated at baseline and at the end of the study, as were efficacy and feasibility of the system, using a rating scale (with 3 being the most positive). RESULTS: SAP has been used for at least 6 months by 85% of patients, with an overall good satisfaction (92%). The greatest perceived benefit was the reduced fear of hypoglycemia (score of 3, 81%). HbA1c significantly improved only in patients with baseline HbA1c >7.5% (P = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS: SAP therapy is effective and feasible in preschool children with T1D. In patients with high HbA1c at baseline it provide a 0.9% decrease, sustained for at least 6 months.