Scientists say they have developed a tiny blood-testing device that sits under the skin and gives instant results via a mobile phone.
The Swiss team say the wireless prototype - half an inch (14mm) long - can simultaneously check for up to five different substances in the blood.
The data is sent to the doctor using radiowaves and Bluetooth technology.
The device's developers hope it will be available to patients within four years.
It is designed to be inserted, using a needle, into the interstitial tissue just beneath the skin of the abdomen, legs or arms. And it could remain there for months before needing to be replaced or removed.
Other researchers have been working on similar implantable monitoring devices, but Prof Giovanni de Micheli and lead scientist Sandro Carrara say their under-the-skin test is unique because it can measure many different markers at the same time.
They say it will be particularly useful for monitoring chronic conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes as well as tracking the impact of drug treatments such as chemotherapy.
More on this story here.
4 comments:
Very encouraging, recommended read
Jeff
Jeff I agree this is very encouraging and I think more so if you are a Type 1 and they can gauge your blood sugar to your pump. I think parents of Type 1's should feel quite encouraged too.
Kay
This could well lead on to many good things which can benefit patients afflicted by not only diabetes but other illnesses and I repeat what has been said "They say it will be particularly useful for monitoring chronic conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes as well as tracking the impact of drug treatments such as chemotherapy." I think this could be one of the best steps forward researchers have made and wait with interest to see how things progress. Very encouraging piece of news.
Joe
A young relation is a Type 1 diabetic and I know the worry and anxiety this causes his parents, other family members, school etc. If this could be developed further it could make quite a difference to those that need to keep a close watch on blood readings and any type of medication.
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