The Use of Insulin Pumps in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes

The use of insulin pump therapy (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion) has increased dramatically in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the past decade. In this review we provide background and practical clinical advice on insulin basal rates and bolus doses and on the advantages of pump therapy with exercise. Acute complications of T1D (hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis) in the context of pump therapy are reviewed. The advantages of pump therapy in the school setting and in hospitalized patients are discussed. Finally, diabetes management in the 21(st) century, in which pump therapy is combined with continuous glucose monitoring, and its potential for a closed-loop pancreas are presented.