[Blood sugar self-profiles. Improvement in diabetes control in outpatients (author's transl)]

15 insulin-dependent diabetics who had been hospitalised for evaluation and modification of their treatment regimen were trained to take their own blood samples with 10 microliter glass capillaries. Blood sugar self-profiles were analysed from each patient twice in hospital and afterwards at home. Urine samples were also self-tested for sugar. The profiles were carried out reliably and seem to cause a minimum of trouble to the patient. This method of feedback, with comparison of blood and urine sugar values, increased the patient's understanding and ability to vary his own insulin dosis. The analysis of 3 daily profiles for each patient showed increasing improvement in metabolic control. This also increased motivation to keep to a regimen in which insulin dosage, physical activity, and nutrition are in balance. For the first time daily profiles were introduced which could be carried out under the normal conditions of the patient's daily life.