Contribution of an intrinsic lag of continuous glucose monitoring systems to differences in measured and actual glucose concentrations

Current continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid to estimate blood glucose concentration.

Authors:
Davey RJ, Low C, Jones TW, Fournier PA

Authors notes:
Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology 2010;4:1393-99

Keywords:
intrinsic lag, continuous glucose monitoring systems, measured, actual glucose concentrations, variable rates in vitro

Abstract
Current continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid to estimate blood glucose concentration. A lag time has been observed between CGM system glucose readings and blood glucose levels when glucose levels are changing. Although this lag has been attributed to the time it takes glucose to equilibrate between blood and interstitial fluid compartments, it is unclear to what extent these inaccuracies reflect an intrinsic delay of the device itself.