[Fingerstick capillary glycemia versus ear lobe measurement: comparative analysis of results and patient preferences]

To evaluate the efficacy and patient preferences of ear lobe capillary glycemia (GC) against conventional fingerstick GC, we studied 40 patients (13M/27F; 41.6 +/- 13.5 years) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). Glucose monitoring was accomplished using a digital glucometer and Accu-Chek Softclix Pro lancetator. Tests were carried out during 27 days with grade 2 of penetration (median) on the distal phalange of the right hand's third finger and on the inferior part of the right ear lobe, at the same time and fasting. The comparative analyzes of fingerstick and ear lobe GC did not show statistical significance (p = 0.008). 72.5% of patients reported no pain during the ear lobe test against 15% in fingerstick GC. There was a significant correlation between ear lobe test and low level of pain (p< 0.001). 82.5% of patients preferred the ear lobe test for monitoring. The ear lobe GC was as efficient as traditional fingerstick test. This new method was associated with low level of pain, safety, comfort, and good acceptance for most patients.