Diabetes Test Monitors Glucose Without Blood Draws
Echo Therapeutics, Incorporated is developing a new device to provide continuous blood sugar monitoring for patients with diabetes, the Symphony system. The exciting component of this new device is that it does not require a blood sample. News about the device was published in the Boston Globe.
The Symphony has a small profile, it is a disc about the size of a half dollar. The system evaluates glucose levels through the skin layer. Ultrasound technology is used to expose capillary blood vessels to measure glucose. Information is wirelessly transmitted to a hand-held monitor or nearby computer.
A study to assess the device was recently completed at Tufts Medical Center with 24 patients in the intensive care unit. Preliminary findings indicate that the device provides both reliable and generally accurate results. The system is also reported by practitioners to be easy to use.
Nevertheless, continued testing is required to establish the accuracy and reliability of the Symphony system. After such trials are completed, Echo intends to submit an application to the FDA for device approval. Echo still needs to raise a significant amount of funds in order to complete all the required steps to bring the device to market. The company intends to commence marketing, at the earliest, in late 2009.
The company also plans modifications to the Symphony device to provide optimal glucose assessment. The new system will scrape off the outermost skin layer to assess glucose. For continuous monitoring, Echo proposes that the device will be placed on the skin like a bandaid.
March 24, 2008 Related topics: New Technology & Innovation, Diagnostic, Renal & Urology