THE EFFECT OF A SKIN CARE INTERVENTION ON FREQUENCIES OF SKIN PROBLEMS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS SIX MONTHS AFTER INITIATION OF DIABETES DEVICES

Background and Aims: Pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes are increasingly using devices to treat their disease. Unfortunately, many evolve skin problems, and especially eczema due to contact with these devices. This study investigated the effect of skin care in preventing skin problems in pediatric patients due to contact with diabetes devices.

Methods: A cluster‐controlled interventional study of 119 pediatric patients was done after initiation of a diabetes device. The intervention consisted of information on proper skin care as well as delivery of a 70%‐lipid lotion for daily use. Patients were seen every third month. Data on skin problems due to devices were obtained by visual inspection as well as interview. Chi‐squared and Fischer Exact test were used as statistics.

Results: After six months, 30% and 32% of the patients in intervention and control group, respectively, had self‐reported skin problems since last visit. Visible skin reactions recognized by trained personnel were seen in 27% of pump patients and 16% of sensor patients at six months, and the distribution of eczema, wound and scar in groups are shown in the figure. No significant differences were found among both self‐reported and visible skin reactions in the intention‐to‐treat analysis but revealed tendencies towards protective effect of intervention.
Conclusions: After six months of device use, 30% of 119 described skin reactions and most of the reactions were seen in pump patients. After six months, the skin care intervention does not significantly prevent skin problems overall, but longer follow‐up is needed.