Accuracy and reliability of two methods of screening for hypoglycemia in neonates

Two hundred and six neonates were screened for hypoglycemia using two glucose test strips and their results compared with a simultaneous blood sugar obtained from the Beckman's glucose analyser. Both test strips, Reflotest hypoglycemia and the Reflolux (BM test glycemia 20-800) gave rapid estimates of blood sugar readings. In this study, these two strips were assessed in their accuracy and reliability to detect neonatal hypoglycaemia (blood sugar levels less than 2.2 mmol/L). The sensitivity and specificity of the two test strips are 0.82 and 0.90 for Reflotest, and 0.88 and 0.81 for Reflolux respectively. Hence we conclude that both Reflotest and Reflolux are sensitive in detecting blood sugar levels at or below 2.2 mmol/L (40 mg/dl) although Reflolux is less specific. A laboratory result is mandatory before the diagnosis and prognosis of hypoglycemia is made.