Reduced Impact of Diabetes Clinic Referral on High-Frequency Emergency Department Users

Objective: The patterns of emergency department (ED) visits in patients with diabetes are not well understood. The Emergency Department Diabetes Rapid-referral Program (EDRP) allows direct booking of ED patients presenting with urgent diabetes needs into a diabetes specialty clinic within 1 day of ED discharge. The objective of this secondary analysis was to examine characteristics of patients with diabetes who have frequent ED visits and determine reasons for revisits.Methods: A single-center analysis was conducted comparing patients referred to the EDRP (n = 420) to historical unexposed controls (n = 791). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients in each frequency group of ED revisits (none, 1 to 3 [infrequent], 4 to 10 [frequent], or >10 [superfrequent]) in the year after the ED index visit. Secondary outcomes were hospitalization rates and International Classification of Diseases–Ninth Revision (ICD-9) diagnoses at ED revisits.Results: Superfrequent users, responsible for >20% of total ED visits, made up small but not significantly different proportions of EDRP and control populations, 3.6% and 5.2%, respectively. Superfrequent groups had lower hospital admission rates at ED revisits compared to frequent groups. Mental health disorders (including substance abuse) were the primary, secondary, or tertiary ICD-9 codes in 30.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 27.7% to 33.5%) and 6.6% (95% CI, 5.1% to 8.2%) in the superfrequent and infrequent groups, respectively.Conclusion: Direct access to diabetes specialty care from the ED is effective in reducing ED recidivism but not amongst a small subgroup of superfrequent ED users. This group was more likely to have mental health disorders recorded at ED revisits, suggesting that more comprehensive approaches are needed for this population.Abbreviations: EDRP = Emergency Department Diabetes Rapid-referral Program; ED = emergency department; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; ICD-9 = International Classification of Diseases–Ninth Revision     

Improvements in Metabolic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Following Referral to a Diabetes Center, 2005–2010

Objective: We aimed to compare metabolic control in adults with diabetes in the general population to those newly referred to a diabetes center and after 1 year of specialty care.Methods: We performed a retrospective comparison of adults with diabetes aged ≥20 years data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, n = 1,674) and a diabetes center (n = 3,128) from 2005–2010. NHANES participants represented the civilian, non-institutionalized U.S. population. Diabetes center referrals lived primarily around eastern Massachusetts. The proportion attaining targets for glycated hemoglobin A1c (A1c), blood pressure (BP), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or all 3 (ABC control) and the proportion prescribed medications to lower A1c, BP, or cholesterol were evaluated.Results: Compared to the general sample, a smaller proportion of new diabetes center referrals had A1c <7% (<53 mmol/mol, 24% vs. 53%, P<.001), BP <130/80 mm Hg (38% vs. 50%, P<.001), and ABC control (5.6% vs. 17%, P<.001) but not LDL<100 mg/dL (<2.6 mmol/L, 54% vs. 53%, P = .65). After 1 year, more diabetes center referrals attained targets for A1c (40%), BP (38%), LDL (67%), and ABC control (15%) (P<.001 for all versus baseline). ABC control was not different between the general sample and diabetes center referrals at 1 year (P = .16). After 1 year, a greater percentage of diabetes center referrals compared to the general sample were prescribed medications to lower glucose (95% vs. 72%), BP (79% vs. 64%), and cholesterol (77% vs. 54%)(all P<.001).Conclusion: Compared to the general population, glycemic control was significantly worse for adults newly referred to the diabetes center. Within 1 year of specialty care, ABC control increased 270% in the setting of significant therapy escalation.Abbreviations:A1c = glycated hemoglobin A1cABC = composite of A1c, blood pressure, and cholesterolACEi = angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitorARB = angiotensin receptor blockerBMI = body mass indexBP = blood pressureEHR = electronic health recordLDL = low-density lipoproteinNCHS = National Center for Health StatisticsNHANES = National Health and Nutrition Examination SurveyPCP = primary care provider     

Regulation of Free Fatty Acid by Sitagliptin Monotherapy in DRUG-NAÏVE Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sitagliptin on the regulation of free fatty acid (FFA) and other metabolic parameters in drug-naïve subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods: This was a prospective, nonrandomized, observational study. Drug-naïve subjects with T2DM received 25 to 50 mg/day sitagliptin monotherapy (n = 64). At 3 months, FFA and other metabolic parameters were compared with those at baseline. FFA was measured by colorimetry with enzymatic reactions. As a comparator, 12.5 to 25 mg/day alogliptin monotherapy was given to drug-naïve subjects with T2DM (n = 55).Results: Significant reductions in FFA (-13.2%, P<0.01) levels were observed with sitagliptin but not alogliptin. Both drugs showed similar glycemic efficacies. Significant correlations were observed between the changes (Δ) of FFA and Δglycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Dtotal cholesterol (TC), Δnon-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), or Δlow-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and significant negative correlations were seen between ΔFFA and Δhomeostasis model assessment-B (HOMA-B), ΔC-peptide immunoreactivity (CPR)-index or Δbody mass index (BMI) in the sitagliptin group. The subjects in the sitagliptin group were further divided into 2 subgroups (n = 32 each) according to the changes of FFA (group B [above the median] ΔFFA = 23.1 %, P<.0005; group A [below the median] ΔFFA = -37.3 %, P<.00001). At baseline, FFA levels were significantly higher in group A versus group B (P<.001). Higher degrees of reductions of FBG (-14.6% vs. -9.3%, P<0.05) or HbA1c (-20.6% vs. -16.9%, P<.05), and increases of HOMA-B (52.7% vs. 38.3%, P<.03) or CPR-index (37.5% vs. 18.8%, P<.02) were observed in group A versus group B. Significant reductions of TC (-5.8%, P<.002), non-HDL-C (-7.8%, P<.001) or LDL-C (-6.3%, P<.02), and significant increases of C-peptide (11.3%, P<.05) were seen only in group A.Conclusion: Sitagliptin could downregulate high FFA levels. Subjects with reductions of FFA levels had better glycemic efficacies and higher degrees of enhancement of beta-cell function than others. Reductions of atherogenic cholesterols were seen in these populations.Abbreviations: CPR = C-peptide immunoreactivity; DPP-4 = dipeptidyl peptidase 4; FBG = fasting blood glucose; FFA = free fatty acid; HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin A1c; HDL-C = high-density lipoprotein cholesterol; HOMA-R = homeostasis model assessment-R; HOMA-B = homeostasis model assessment-B; non-HDL-C = non-HDL-cholesterol; LDL-C = low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; TC = total cholesterol; T2DM = type 2 diabetes; TG = triglyceride; UA = uric acid     

The Efficacy and Safety of Co-Administration of Sitagliptin With Metformin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes at Hospital Discharge

Objective: Few randomized controlled trials have focused on the optimal management of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) during the transition from the inpatient to outpatient setting. This multicenter open-label study explored a discharge strategy based on admission hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) to guide therapy in general medicine and surgery patients with T2D.Methods: Patients with HbA1c ≤7% (53 mmol/mol) were discharged on sitagliptin and metformin; patients with HbA1c between 7 and 9% (53–75 mmol/mol) and those >9% (75 mmol/mol) were discharged on sitagliptinmetformin with glargine U-100 at 50% or 80% of the hospital daily dose. The primary outcome was change in HbA1c at 3 and 6 months after discharge.Results: Mean HbA1c on admission for the entire cohort (N = 253) was 8.70 ± 2.3% and decreased to 7.30 ± 1.5% and 7.30 ± 1.7% at 3 and 6 months (P<.001). Patients with HbA1c <7% went from 6.3 ± 0.5% to 6.3 ± 0.80% and 6.2 ± 1.0% at 3 and 6 months. Patients with HbA1c between 7 and 9% had a reduction from 8.0 ± 0.6% to 7.3 ± 1.1% and 7.3 ± 1.3%, and those with HbA1c >9% from 11.3 ± 1.7% to 8.0 ± 1.8% and 8.0 ± 2.0% at 3 and 6 months after discharge (both P<.001). Clinically significant hypoglycemia (<54 mg/dL) was observed in 4%, 4%, and 7% among patients with a HbA1c <7%, 7 to 9%, and >9%, while a glucose <40 mg/dL was reported in <1% in all groups.Conclusion: The proposed HbA1c-based hospital discharge algorithm using a combination of sitagliptin-metformin was safe and significantly improved glycemic control after hospital discharge in general medicine and surgery patients with T2D.Abbreviations: BG = blood glucose; DPP-4 = dipeptidyl peptidase-4; eGFR = estimated glomerular filtration rate; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; T2D = type 2 diabetes     

Differences in Achieving Hba1C Goals Among Patients Seen by Endocrinologists and Primary Care Providers

Objective: This study evaluated whether there is a difference in the proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes who achieve a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) <7% within one year following treatment by an endocrinologist or primary care physician (PCP).Methods: We conducted a retrospective, propensity-matched study of patients with type 2 diabetes that were not optimally controlled and seen within our health system from 2007–2016. We assessed differences in short term health outcomes for patients following an endocrinologist visit compared to a PCP visit.Results: Patients seen by endocrinologists obtained HbA1c control at a faster rate (hazard ratio = 1.226; 95% confidence interval = 1.01 to 1.488) than those seen by a PCP. Furthermore, 34.5% and 29.5% of those treated by endocrinologists and PCPs, respectively, obtained HbA1c control by one year. Endocrinologists were more likely to prescribe a new medication class within 90 days than PCPs (14.1% versus 10.3%, respectively, P = .043). There was no difference in the risk of hospitalization between groups; 24.4% and 24.1% of those treated by endocrinologists and PCPs, respectively, were hospitalized within one year.Conclusion: Patients treated by endocrinology specialists were more likely to achieve a target HbA1c of <7% (53 mmol/mol) than those treated by PCPs in our health-care system. The performance difference may be partially explained by a higher rate of adding new classes of diabetes medications to the patient's pharmacologic regimens within 90 days by endocrinologists compared with PCPs. The long-term impact of these differences is unknown but has the potential to have an unfavorable impact on the health of the population.Abbreviations: ACP = American College of Physicians; CI = confidence interval; DUHS = Duke University Health System; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; HR = hazard ratio; PCP = primary care physician; SMD = standard mean difference     

Partial Hospitalization: An Intervention for Youth with Poorly Controlled Diabetes Mellitus

Objective: To examine the efficacy of an integrated medical/psychiatric partial hospitalization program (PHP) to improve glycemic control in youth with both diabetes mellitus and mental health disorders.Methods: This retrospective chart review is of patients admitted to a PHP between 2005–2015 with concerns about diabetes mellitus care. Clinical characteristics, laboratory data, diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalizations, and outpatient clinic visit frequency were collected from the year prior to the year after PHP admission.Results: A total of 43 individuals met inclusion criteria: 22 (51%) were female, 40 (93%) had type 1 diabetes, the mean age was 15.2 ± 2.3 years, and the mean diabetes mellitus duration was 4.6 ± 3.6 years. Of those individuals, 35 of these patients had hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) data available at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year after PHP. The average HbA1c before PHP admission was 11.3 ± 2.3% (100.5 ± 25 mmol/mol), and decreased to 9.2 ± 1.3% (76.7 ± 14.8 mmol/mol) within 6 months of PHP admission (P<.001). The average HbA1c 1 year after PHP was 10.7 ± 1.7 % (93.3 ± 19.1 mmol/mol). Overall, 24 patients (68%) had lower HbA1c, and 75% of those with improvement maintained an HbA1c reduction of ≥1% (≥10 mmol/mol) at 1 year compared to before PHP.Conclusion: Most patients demonstrated improved glycemic control within 6 months of PHP admission, and many of those maintained a ≥1% (≥10 mmol/mol) reduction in HbA1c at 1 year following PHP admission. This program may represent a promising intervention that could serve as a model for intensive outpatient management of youth with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.Abbreviations: ADA = American Diabetes Association; DKA = diabetic ketoacidosis; EMR = electronic medical record; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; ICD-9 = International Classification of Diseases, 9^th revision; PHP = partial hospitalization program     

Utility of Psychological Screening of Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Transitioning to Adult Providers

Objective: Screening for depression, diabetes distress, and disordered eating in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is recommended, as these comorbidities contribute to poor glycemic control. No consensus exists on which measures are optimal, and most previous studies have used nondisease-specific measures. We examined the utility of screening for these disorders using two disease-specific and one general measure at the time of transition from pediatric to adult care.Methods: Forty-three young adults from a T1D transition clinic completed the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Diabetes Distress Scale, and the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey–Revised. Chart review determined if clinicians noted similar symptoms during the year prior to transition. Metabolic data were also recorded.Results: Chart review identified 5 patients with depressive symptoms and 8 patients with diabetes distress. Screening identified 2 additional patients with depressive symptoms and 1 additional patient with diabetes distress. Of those noted to have symptomatic depression or diabetes distress on chart review, several subsequently screened negative on transition. Disordered eating was not detected by chart review, but 23.5% screened positive on transition. While depression, diabetes distress, and disordered eating positively correlated with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (r = 0.31, P = .05; r = 0.40, P = .009; r = 0.63, P<.001, respectively), disordered eating accounted for the majority of observed variance (df = 1; F = 18.6; P<.001). Even though HbA1c was higher in patients with versus without disordered eating (P<.001), body mass index did not differ between the 2 groups (P = .51).Conclusion: In young adults with T1D, formal screening provides an opportunity to detect psychological problems, which, when treated, may help optimize metabolic control during the transition process.Abbreviations:T1D = type 1 diabetesHbA1C = hemoglobin A1cYCDP = Yale Children's Diabetes ProgramPHQ-8 = Patient Health Questionnaire–8DDS = Diabetes Distress ScaleDEPS-R = Diabetes Eating Problem Survey–Revised     

Glycemic Control and Diabetic Dyslipidemia in Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes

ObjectiveThe incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing at an alarming rate, especially in ethnic minorities, and T2DM is associated with significant comorbidities. The primary objective of this study was to assess glycemic control and cardiovascular risk outcomes in children with T2DM at 1 year after diagnosis. We also assessed whether insulin treatment at onset of diabetes is beneficial for overall outcome in those with elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C).MethodsA retrospective electronic chart review of non-Hispanic white (NHW) and African American (AA) children with T2DM.ResultsA total of 86 patients (66.3% females, 79.1% AA, mean age, 13.8 ± 2.4 years) with T2DM were included. Analyses of therapeutic outcome measures at the 1-year follow-up showed HbA1C <8% in 27.7% of patients, low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) >130 mg/dL in 12.5%, non-high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) >160 mg/dL in 15.6%, HDL-C <35 mg/dL in 25%, systolic hypertension (HTN) in 35.6%, and diastolic HTN in 6.8% of subjects. Among those started on insulin at initial diagnosis, there was significant improvement in glycemic outcomes (P<.0001 on insulin vs. P = .02 not on insulin) and dyslipidemia (total cholesterol [TC] [P = .001], LDL-C [P = .02], HDL-C [P = .01], non-HDL-C [P = .0002], and TC/HDL-C [P = .005]) compared with no significant change among those who did not receive insulin at diagnosis.ConclusionSubstantial numbers of children with T2DM do not achieve glycemic and cardiovascular therapeutic goals 1 year after diagnosis. Insulin therapy at diagnosis has significant beneficial effects on diabetic dyslipidemia in those with higher HbA1C. (Endocr Pract. 2013; 19:972-979)     

Medical Tourism and Diabetes Care: Experience from a Tertiary Referral Center

Objective: Medical tourism, a form of patient mobility across international borders to seek medical services, has gained significant momentum. We aimed to assess the outcomes of medical tourism consultations on chronic diseases, more specifically diabetes mellitus, amongst a cohort of international patients, originating from different healthcare systems, and referred to the United States for medical care.Methods: We identified international adults with established diabetes mellitus, referred globally from 6 countries to the United States between 2010 and 2016 for medical care, and were seen at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF). Group 1 included adults seen by an endocrinology provider during their CCF medical stay, whilst group 2 included those not seen by an endocrinology provider. To assess the impact of our consultations, changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were assessed between visit(s).Results: Our study included 1,108 subjects (771 in group 1, 337 in group 2), with a mean age (± SD) of 61.3 ± 12.7 years, 62% male, and a median medical stay of 136 days (interquartile range: 57, 660). Compared to group 2, group 1 had a higher baseline mean HbA1c (8.0 ± 1.8% &lsqb;63.9 mmol/mol] vs. 7.1 ± 1.4% &lsqb;54.1 mmol/mol]; P<.001). After 1 visit with endocrinology, there was a significant decrease in mean HbA1c from 8.44 ± 1.98% (68.3 mmol/mol) to 7.51 ± 1.57% (58.5 mmol/mol) (P<.001). Greatest reductions in mean HbA1c were -1.47% (95% CI: -2.21, -0.74) and -1.27% (95% CI: -1.89, -0.66) after 3 and 4 visits, respectively (P<.001).Conclusion: Short-term diabetes mellitus consultations, in the context of medical tourism, are effective.     

Impact of Weight loss Trajectory Following Randomization to Bariatric Surgery on Long-Term Diabetes Glycemic and Cardiometabolic Parameters

Objective: It is unclear whether acute weight loss or the chronic trajectory of weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with long-term type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) glycemic improvement. This ancillary study of the Surgical Treatment and Medications Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently (STAMPEDE) trial aimed to answer this question.Methods: In STAMPEDE, 150 patients with T2DM were randomized to bariatric surgery, and 96 had 5-year follow-up. Data post–Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB, n = 49) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG, n = 47) were analyzed. We defined percent weight loss in the first year as negative percent decrease from baseline weight to lowest weight in the first year. Percent weight regain was positive percent change from lowest weight in the first year to fifth year. Weight change was then correlated with cardiometabolic (CM) and glycemic outcomes at 5 years using Spearman rank correlations and multivariate analysis.Results: In both RYGB and SG, less weight loss in the first year positively correlated with higher 5-year glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (RYGB, β = +0.13; P<.001 and SG, β = 0.14; P<.001). In SG, greater weight regain from nadir positively correlated with higher HbA1c (β = 0.06; P = .02), but not in RYGB. Reduced first-year weight loss was also correlated with increased 5-year triglycerides (β = 1.81; P = .01), but not systolic blood pressure. Weight regain did not correlate with CM outcomes.Conclusion: Acute weight loss may be more important for T2DM glycemic control following both RYGB and SG as compared with weight regain. Clinicians should aim to assist patients with achieving maximal weight loss in the first year post-op to maximize long-term health of patients.Abbreviations: BMI = body mass index; HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin; RYGB = Roux-en-Y gastric bypass; SBP = systolic blood pressure; SG = sleeve gastrectomy; STAMPEDE = Surgical Treatment and Medications Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently; T2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitus; TG = triglyceride     

ACUTE PANCREATITIS IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE HYPERTRIGLYCERIDEMIA IN A MULTI-ETHNIC MINORITY POPULATION

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and predictors of hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) in a multi-ethnic minority population.Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional study from 2003 to 2013 of 1,157 adults with a serum triglyceride (TG) level =1,000 mg/dL comparing baseline characteristics and risk factors between those with and without HTG-AP.Results: Mean study population age was 49.2 ± 11.5 years; 75.6% were male, 31.6% African American, 38.4% Hispanic, 22.7% Caucasian, 5.7% Asian, and 1.6% Pacific Islander. Prevalence of HTG-AP was 9.2%. Patients with HTG-AP were significantly younger (41.3 years vs. 50.0 years; P<.001) than those without HTG-AP. Excessive alcohol intake (odds ratio [OR], 3.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.5 to 6.0; P<.001), gallstone disease (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.4 to 10.8; P = .008), and TG >2,000 mg/dL (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 3.1 to 7.4; P<.001) remained significant independent risk factors. TG levels for patients with HTG-AP were higher (median TG, 2,394 mg/dL; interquartile range [IQR], 1,152 to 4,339 mg/dL vs. median TG, 1,406 mg/dL; IQR, 1,180.7 to 1,876.5 mg/dL). TG levels >2,000 mg/dL were associated with higher incidence of AP (22% vs. 5%). Patients with TG levels <2,000 mg/dL and no risk factors had prevalence of 2% compared to 33.6% with one risk factor and TG >2,000 mg/dL. Patients with HTG-AP had higher incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis at admission (7.5% vs. 2.5%; P = .004).Conclusion: TG level =2,000 mg/dL is associated with higher HTG-AP prevalence in ethnic minorities. Presence of excessive alcohol intake and/or gallstones further accentuates risk.Abbreviations: AP = acute pancreatitis; CT = computed tomography; DM = diabetes mellitus; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; HIV = human immunodeficiency virus; HTG = hyper-triglyceridemia; HTG-AP = hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis; ROC = receiver operating characteristic; TG = triglyceride     

The Synergy to Enable Glycemic Control Following Emergency Department Discharge Program for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Step-Diabetes

Objective: To evaluate a diabetes (DM) care delivery model among hyperglycemic adults with type 2 DM being discharged from the emergency department (ED) to home. The primary hypothesis was that a focused education and medication management intervention would lead to a greater short-term improvement in glycemic control compared to controls.Methods: A 4-week, randomized controlled trial provided antihyperglycemic medications management using an evidence-based algorithm plus survival skills diabetes self-management education (DSME) for ED patients with blood glucose (BG) levels ≥200 mg/dL. The intervention was delivered by endocrinologist-supervised certified diabetes educators. Controls received usual ED care.Results: Among 101 participants (96% Black, 54% female, 62.3% Medicaid and/or Medicare insurance), 77% completed the week 4 visit. Glycated hemoglobin A1C (A1C) went from 11.8 ± 2.4 to 10.5 ± 1.9% (P<.001) and 11.5 ± 2.0 to 11.1 ± 2.1% in the intervention and control groups, respectively (P = .012). At 4 weeks, the difference in A1C reduction between groups was 0.9% (P = .01). Mean BG decreased for both groups (P<.001), with a higher percentage of intervention patients (65%) reaching a BG <180 mg/dL compared to 29% of controls (P = .002). Hypoglycemia rates did not differ by group, and no severe hypoglycemia was reported. Medication adherence (Modified Morisky Score©) improved from low to medium (P<.001) among intervention patients and did not improve among controls.Conclusions: This study provides evidence that a focused diabetes care delivery intervention can be initiated in the ED among adults with type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia and safely and effectively completed in the ambulatory setting. Improvement in short-term glycemic outcomes and medication adherence were observed.Abbreviations: A1C = glycated hemoglobin A1C BG = blood glucose BMI = body mass index CDE = certified diabetes educator CI = confidence interval DM = diabetes mellitus DSME = diabetes self-management education ED = emergency departmentMMAS-8 = Modified Morisky Medication Scale PCP = primary care provider POC = point of care SQ = subcutaneous     

Serum Levels of Carcinoembryonic Antigen in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Objective: To investigate whether serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).Methods: A comparative, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted at Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan, on 282 adult subjects from March 2012 to June 2015. Subjects were classified into 2 groups: T2DM subjects (n = 168) and a healthy comparison group (n = 114). Subjects with any condition known to be associated with elevated CEA levels were excluded. HbA1c and serum CEA levels were measured, and body mass index (BMI) was determined.Results: Subjects with T2DM had significantly higher mean serum CEA than controls (2.4 ± 1.5 vs. 1.5 ± 1.2 ng/mL, P<.0001). Sex did not correlate with CEA levels, while age (Spearman's rho [ρ] = 0.18, P =.002) and HbA1c (ρ = 0.56, P<.0001) did; however, age no longer correlated after correcting for diabetic status. HbA1c was the only variable shown to correlate with CEA in a stepwise linear regression (r = 0.37, P<.001).Conclusion: We observed a statistically significant association between elevated CEA and T2DM, despite average CEA values for both groups being within the reference range. In addition, serum CEA levels correlated positively with HbA1c values.Abbreviations:ADA = American Diabetes AssociationBMI = body mass indexCA 19-9 = carbohydrate antigen 19-9CEA = carcinoembryonic antigenCRP = C-reactive proteinDM = diabetes mellitusHbA1c = glycated hemoglobinJUH = Jordan University HospitalT2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitusρ = Spearman's correlation coefficient     

Hypoglycemia Rates After Restriction of High-Dose Glargine in Hospitalized Patients

Objective: Hypoglycemia remains one of the main challenges of insulin therapy. To reduce insulin-related hypoglycemia at our institution, we restricted inpatient ordering of high glargine doses (≥0.5 U/kg/day) to endocrine staff in May 2013. This retrospective cohort study assesses its effect on hypoglycemia and glycemic control within 48 hours of admission (ADM).Methods: We identified 692 adult patients hospitalized at Boston Medical Center who received glargine upon ADM from November 1, 2012 through April 30, 2013 as the pre-intervention group, and 651 adult patients admitted between November 1, 2013 and April 30, 2014 as the postintervention group. Demographics, medical history, home insulin regimen, concurrent oral diabetes medications or glucocorticoid administration, ADM serum creatinine, all blood glucose levels (BG) ≤48 hours of ADM, and hemoglobin A1c values ≤3 months were assessed. Hypoglycemia was defined as BG ≤70 mg/dL, and hyperglycemia as BG ≥200 mg/dL. Multivariable regression models assessed potential associations between covariates and incidence of hypoglycemia and average BG ≤48 hours of ADM.Results: Demographics were similar between groups. Significantly less patients received high-dose glargine in the post-intervention group (5.2% vs. 0.3%, P<.001). Incidences of hypoglycemia were significantly lower in the postintervention group (20.9% vs. 17.8%, P<.001 per ADM; 3.4% vs. 2.3%, P = .001 per BG measurements [BGM]). Mean BG levels ≤48 hours of ADM and incidence of hyperglycemia were not significantly different. The adjusted incident rate ratio of hypoglycemia was 0.63 per ADM and 0.74 per BGM in the postintervention group compared to the pre-intervention group (P = .001 and P = .063, respectively).Conclusion: We found that implementation of a restriction on high doses of glargine resulted in lower rates of hypoglycemia without worsening glycemic control.Abbreviations:ADM = admissionBG = blood glucoseBGM = blood glucose measurementsBMC = Boston Medical CenterBMI = body mass indexEMR = electronic medical recordHgbA1c = hemoglobin A1cIRR = incidence rate ratioNPH = neutral protamine HagedornTDD = total daily doseT2D = type 2 diabetes     

The Added and Interpretative Value of CGM-Derived Parameters in Type 1 Diabetes Depends on the Level of Glycemic Control

ObjectiveIn type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) management, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-derived parameters can provide additional insights, with time in range (TIR) and other parameters reflecting glycemic control and variability being put forward. This study aimed to examine the added and interpretative value of the CGM-derived indices TIR and coefficient of variation (CV%) in T1DM patients stratified according to their level of glycemic control by means of HbA1C.MethodsT1DM patients with a minimum disease duration of 10 years and without known macrovascular disease were enrolled. Patients were equipped with a blinded CGM device for 7 days. TIR and time spent in hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia were determined, and CV% was used as a parameter for glycemic variability. Pearson (r) and Spearman correlations (r_s) and a regression analysis were used to examine associations.ResultsNinety-five patients (age: 45 ± 10 years; HbA1C level: 7.7% ± 0.8% [61 ± 7 mmol/mol]) were included (mean blood glucose [MBG]: 159 ± 31 mg/dL; TIR: 55.8% ± 14.9%; CV%: 43.5% ± 7.8%) and labeled as having good (HbA1C level ≤7% [≤53 mmol/mol]; n = 20), moderate (7%-8%; n = 44), or poor (>8% [>64 mmol/mol]; n = 31) glycemic control. HbA1C was significantly associated with MBG (r_s = 0.48, P < .001) and time spent in hyperglycemia (total: r_s = 0.52; level 2: r = 0.46; P < .001) but not with time spent in hypoglycemia and CV%, even after an analysis of the HbA1C subgroups. Similarly, TIR was negatively associated with HbA1C (r = −0.53; P < .001), MBG (r_s = −0.81; P < .001), and time spent in hyperglycemia (total: r_s = −0.90; level 2: r_s = −0.84; P < .001) but not with time in hypoglycemia. The subgroup analyses, however, showed that TIR was associated with shorter time spent in level-2 hypoglycemia in patients with good (r_s = −0.60; P = .007) and moderate (r_s = −0.25; P = .047) glycemic control. In contrast, CV% was strongly positively associated with time in hypoglycemia (total: r_s = 0.78; level 2: r_s = 0.76; P < .001) but not with TIR or time in hyperglycemia in the entire cohort, although the subgroup analyses showed that TIR was negatively associated with CV% in patients with good glycemic control (r = −0.81, P < .001) and positively associated in patients with poor glycemic control (r = +0.47; P < .01).ConclusionThe CGM-derived metrics TIR and CV% are related to clinically important situations, TIR being strongly dependent on hyperglycemia and CV% being reflective of hypoglycemic risk. However, the interpretation and applicability of TIR and CV% and their relationship depends on the level of glycemic control of the individual patient, with CV% generally adding less clinically relevant information in those with poor control. This illustrates the need for further research and evaluation of composite measures of glycemic control in T1DM.     

Cheiroarthropathy: A Common Disorder in Patients in the T1D Exchange

Objective: Diabetic cheiroarthropathy is a long-term complication of diabetes that causes significant morbidity and can impair functional abilities. It has not been well studied in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The T1D Exchange registry provided an opportunity to assess the frequency of cheiroarthropathy and related characteristics.Methods: An internet-based survey was sent to 6,199 registry participants ≥18 years old, with 1,911 (31%) responding (62% female, 90% non-Hispanic White, mean age 40 years, median diabetes duration 20 years, mean glycated hemoglobin &lsqb;HbA1c] 7.7% &lsqb;61 mmol/mol]).Results: A total of 586 (31%) adults reported a diagnosis of ≥1 upper extremity disorder: 293 (15%) reported frozen shoulder, 293 (15%) trigger finger, 261 (14%) carpal tunnel, and 92 (5%) Dupuytren contracture, with 281 (15%) reporting ≥2 disorders. Those with upper extremity joint disorders were more likely older (P<.001) and had longer duration of diabetes (P<.001) than those without. HbA1c levels at the time of survey completion were 7.6% in participants with cheiroarthropathy versus 7.8% (62 mmol/mol) in participants without cheiroarthropathy.Conclusion: Cheiroarthropathy is common in adults with T1D. Additional research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and risk factors for this disorder. Standards of care for early recognition and treatment of diabetic cheiroarthropathy are also needed, particularly for adults with long-term diabetes. Improved awareness of cheiroarthropathy signs and symptoms of is needed so that patients can be identified and seek treatment before the condition causes disability.Abbreviations: BMI = body mass index; CGM = continuous glucose monitor; DCCT/EDIC = Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications; HbA1C = glycated hemoglobin; T1D = type 1 diabetes; T2D = type 2 diabetes     

Increased Bone Turnover in Type 2 Diabetes Patients Randomized to Bariatric Surgery Versus Medical Therapy at 5 Years

Objective: The aim of our study was to determine the 5-year outcomes of bariatric surgery versus intensive medical therapy on bone turnover in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from the STAMPEDE trial.Methods: This was an ancillary investigation of a 5-year randomized control trial at a single tertiary care center involving 95 patients aged 48.5 ± 8 years with obesity (body mass index &lsqb;BMI], 36.5 ± 3.6 kg/m²) and uncontrolled T2DM (glycated hemoglobin 9.3 ± 1.6% &lsqb;78 mmol/mol]). Patients were randomized to intensive medical therapy (IMT; n = 25), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; n = 37), or sleeve gastrectomy (SG; n = 33) for diabetes treatment. Bone formation marker osteocalcin (OC), bone resorption marker serum C-telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX), and intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) were assessed at baseline and 5 years postintervention. Analysis with key clinical parameters and outcomes (i.e., age, menopausal status, gender, weight loss) was performed.Results: Percent change in CTX at 5 years increased in both surgical groups, by 137 ± 108% in RYGB (P<.001) and 61.1 ± 90% in SG (P<.001) compared to 29.8 ± 93% in IMT (P = .12). OC also increased from baseline in the surgical cohorts, by 138 ± 19% in RYGB (P<.001) and 71 ± 69% in SG (P<.001) compared to 43.8 ± 121.1% in IMT (P = .83). Increases in both CTX and OC correlated linearly with increases in PTH levels in RYGB patients (P<.001). Increase in CTX correlated with decreased BMI in SG patients (P = .039).Conclusion: In patients with T2DM, bone turnover remains chronically elevated at 5 years following RYGB, and to a lesser extent in SG patients.Abbreviations: BMI = body mass index; BTM = bone turnover marker; CTX = C-telopeptide of type 1 collagen; HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin; IMT = intensive medical therapy; OC = osteocalcin; PPI = proton-pump inhibitor; PTH = parathyroid hormone; RYGB = Roux-en-Y gastric bypass; SG = sleeve gastrectomy; T2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitus; TZD = thiazolidinedione     

Daily Inpatient Glycemic Survey (DINGS): A Process to Remotely Identify and Assist in the Management of Hospitalized Patients with Diabetes and Hyperglycemia

Objective: Hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and glycemic variability have been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and overall costs of care in hospitalized patients. At the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York, a process aimed to improve inpatient glycemic control by remotely assisting primary care teams in the management of hyperglycemia and diabetes was designed.Methods: An electronic query comprised of hospitalized patients with glucose values <70 mg/dL or >350 mg/dL is generated daily. Electronic medical records (EMRs) are individually reviewed by diabetes specialist providers, and management recommendations are sent to primary care teams when applicable. Glucose data was retrospectively examined before and after the establishment of the daily inpatient glycemic survey (DINGS) process, and rates of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia were compared.Results: Patient-day mean glucose slightly but significantly decreased from 177.6 ± 64.4 to 173.2 ± 59.4 mg/dL (P<.001). The percentage of patient-days with any value >350 mg/dL also decreased from 9.69 to 7.36% (P<.001), while the percentage of patient-days with mean glucose values in the range of 90 to 180 mg/dL increased from 58.1 to 61.4% (P<.001). Glycemic variability, assessed by the SD of glucose, significantly decreased from 53.9 to 49.8 mg/dL (P<.001). Moreover, rates of hypoglycemia (<70 mg/dL) decreased significantly by 41% (P<.001).Conclusion: Quality metrics of inpatient glycemic control improved significantly after the establishment of the DINGS process within our facility. Prospective controlled studies are needed to confirm a causal association.Abbreviations: DINGS = daily inpatient glycemic survey EMR = electronic medical record HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin ICU = intensive care unit VA = Veterans Affairs     

Relationship Between Glycated Hemoglobin and Circulating 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentration In African American And Caucasian American Men

ObjectiveTo examine whether (1) serum 25-hydroxy- vitamin D level (25[OH]D) is a risk factor for hyperglycemia, as assessed by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), in African American men (AAM) and (2) 25(OH)D is a predictor of HbA1c in AAM and Caucasian American men (CAM).MethodsWe prospectively assessed 25(OH)D and HbA1c in 1,074 men, outpatients with and without diabetes, at an urban Veteran Administration Medical Center (66.8% AAM, 26.4% CAM, 6% Hispanic, 0.4% Asian, and 0.4% Native American men). Multivariate regression analyzed the determinants of HbA1c after accounting for potential confounders.ResultsWe found high prevalence of low (< 30 ng/mL) 25(OH)D (81%) and elevated (≥5.7%) HbAlc (53.5%). The 25(OH)D was inversely associated with HbA1c in all men (r = −0.12, P<.001), in AAM (r = −0.11, P = .003), and in CAM (r = −0.15, P = .01). In the entire group the independent determinants of HbA1c included body mass index (BMI), age, 25(OH)D levels, systolic blood pressure (BP), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and current alcohol use (P<.0001, .013, .009, .01, .008, .034, and .048, respectively) while glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and marital status showed borderline significance (P = .08 and .09, respectively). In AAM these determinants included BMI, 25(OH)D levels, systolic BP, and current alcohol use (P<.0001, .01, .02, and .03, respectively), while age had borderline significance (P = .06). In CAM, these included BMI, age, and triglycerides (P = .01, .03, and .004, respectively) but not 25(OH)D levels (P = .50).ConclusionCirculating low 25(OH)D is a risk factor for hyperglycemia, as assessed by HbA1c, in AAM. The 25(OH)D level is an independent determinant of HbA1c in AAM, but not in CAM, including men with and without diabetes. (Endocr Pract. 2013;19:73-80)