CSII therapy improved HbA1c in children with type 1 diabetes

Despite the lack of cost-effectiveness of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy, it was found to be a safe and well-tolerated treatment for children with type 1 diabetes vs. multiple daily injections, according to data presented at the 2012 Pediatric Academic Societies Annual Meeting.

Researchers from the Children's University Hospital and the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin collected retrospective data for 104 children and adolescents who began continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy between 2005 and 2011. The average age at which patients began CSII therapy was 10.3 years.

The goal of the study was to compare glycemic control in pump patients 12 months before pump therapy with the incidence of adverse effects before and after CSII therapy.

Data were collected 6 and 12 months before pump use, 6 and 12 months after pump use and annually up to 5 years after pump use had begun, the researchers said.

According to the researchers, a significant improvement in HbA1c was not only apparent but also sustained throughout the study period.

Before pump use, HbA1c was 8.6% and decreased to 8.1% (P,.05) at 12 months. HbA1c levels rose slightly to 8.2% (P,.05) at 24 months, but declined again at 36 months to 8.1% (P,.05). HbA1c remained consistent at 48 months, but fell to 7.9% (P,.05) at 72 months.

Although multiple daily injections may be more cost-effective, the researchers said CSII therapy provides an inherently beneficial effect on quality of life.