[Blood sugar control in diabetics with the insulin pump. Comparison with discontinuous injections]

Eighteen insulin-dependent diabetic patients received insulin in a continuous subcutaneous infusion delivered by a portable pump. Short-term glycemic control was evaluated on the average glycemia (serum glucose was assayed seven times per 24 hours for three to five days), on the MAGE coefficient which gives an estimate of glycemic lability, and, in eight patients, on serum C-peptide concentrations. Results were compared to those recorded with two daily subcutaneous injections of a combination of regular and intermediate insulin. The average glycemia and the MAGE coefficient were 1.32 + 0.05 milligram (m + SEM) and 1 + 0.05 milligram respectively under continuous infusion, compared to 2.05 + 0.12 and 1.76 + 0.12 milligram respectively under insulin injections. Insulin requirements were significantly lower under continuous infusion (0.99 + 0.08 U/kg versus 1.35 + 0.11 U/kg). In three patients with brittle diabetes the use of the pump ensured rapid metabolic control. The advantages and drawbacks of portable insulin pumps are discussed in the light of this experience.