Accuracy of a flash glucose monitoring system in diabetic dogs

Abstract

Background: A novel flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS) (FreeStyle Libre, Abbott, UK) was recently developed for humans. It continuously measures the interstitial glucose (IG) concentrations for 14 days.Objectives: To assess the clinical and analytical accuracy of the FGMS in diabetic dogs. Animals: Ten client-owned diabetic dogs on insulin treatment. Methods: Prospective and observational study. The FGMS was placed on the neck for up to 14 days. During the 1st-2nd, 6-7th, and 13-14th days from application, the IG measurements were compared with the plasma (EDTA) glucose (PG) concentrations analyzed by a reference hexokinase based method.Results: The application and the use of the FGMS were apparently painless, easy, and well tolerated by all dogs. Mild erythema at the site of the application was found in 5/10 dogs at the end of the wearing period. A good correlation between IG and PG concentrations (rho = 0.94; P < .001) was found. The FGMS was 93, 99, and 99% accurate at low, normal, and high blood glucose concentrations. Mean AE standard deviation difference from the reference method was 2.3 AE 46.8 mg/dL. Conclusion and clinical importance:The FGMS is easy to use and is accurate for IG glucose measurement in diabetic dogs.