Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy for Type 1 diabetes mellitus in children

Purpose: Continuous subcutaneous insulin pump therapy (CSII or pump therapy) is a well-recognised treatment option for Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in paediatrics. It is especially suited to children because it optimises control by improving flexibility across age-specific lifestyles. The NICE guidelines (2008) recognise that pump therapy is advantageous and that it should be utilised to deliver best practice. In Ireland, the National Clinical Program for Diabetes will increase the availability and uptake of CSII in children and thus more clinicians are likely to encounter children using CSII therapy. Methods: This is a narrative review which discusses the basic principles of pump therapy and focuses on aspects of practical management. Results: Insulin pump management involves some basic yet important principles which optimise the care of diabetes in children. Conclusions: This review addresses the principles of insulin pump management in children which all health care professionals involved in caring for the child with diabetes, shoud be familiar with.