A two-center randomized controlled feasibility trial of insulin pump therapy in young children with diabetes

Abstract

Objective: Our goals were to determine if continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), compared with those continuing multiple daily injections (MDIs), can be safely used in young children, if those on CSII will have superior glycemic control, if subjects using CSII will have less hypoglycemia for their level of control, and if families using CSII will report an improved quality of life.

Research design and methods: We conducted a randomized 1-year feasibility trial comparing CSII with continuing MDIs in preschool children with a history of type 1 diabetes for at least 6 months' duration. Prospective outcomes included measures of overall glycemic control (HbA1c and continuous glucose monitoring system), the incidence of severe hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, the percent of glucose values below 3.9 mmol/l, and the parents' report of quality of life.

Results: The 19 subjects' ages ranged from 1.7 to 6.1 (mean 3.6) years, duration of diabetes ranged from 0.6 to 2.6 (mean 1.4) years, and baseline HbA1c ranged from 6.7 to 9.6% (mean 7.9%). Seven subjects were male. Nine subjects were randomized to start CSII and 10 to continue on MDI. All baseline characteristics were well balanced. Overall metabolic control, diabetes quality of life, and the incidence of hypoglycemia were similar in the two groups. No subject had diabetic ketoacidosis, while one subject in each group had an episode of severe hypoglycemia. No CSII subject discontinued using the pump during or after the study.

Conclusions: CSII can be a safe and effective method to deliver insulin in young children.