Perception and Possible Causes of Skin Problems to Insulin Pump and Glucose Sensor: Results from Pediatric Focus Groups

Use of insulin pump and glucose sensor in children with diabetes has been shown to cause skin problems such as eczema, wounds, and itching. The mechanisms for development of skin problems are unknown as well as the influence on the everyday life of the patient. The aim of this study was through focus groups to get more perspective on perception of skin problems as well as the patients' view on causes of skin problems. The two focus groups gave new insight into the consequences of skin problems to both patient and parents in terms of itching, concentration, self-esteem, guilt, etc. The focus group gave as well new perspectives on causes of skin problems, and especially three concepts must be further investigated: material (plastic, patch and vacuum effect), time, and skin characteristics.