LAUSR

Background Use of a continuous glucose-monitoring system (CGMS) in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) may cause local skin irritation. Objective To examine the effects of fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal solution (nsFP), sprayed topically prior to CGMS insertion among youth with T1D. Methods This is a case series observational report, including real-life 6-month follow-up data from one pediatric diabetes center. All patients suffering from local skin irritation due to CGMS adhesives were offered prevention form skin irritation by spraying 2 puffs of nsFP on the skin area prior to adhesion of CGMS. Data were collected from their charts after 6 months. Outcome measures included the difference in degree of skin irritation, number of days of CGMS use, BMI SDS, mean glucose, and HbA1c, prior to use and during 6 months after use. Results Twelve patients used nsFP prior to CGMS insertion, mean age 8.6 ± 4.9 years and 66.7% males. Ten patients, median age 6.1 years (5.3–9.5) and 56% males, continued using nsFP for a mean of 0.56 ± 0.11 years, with no recurrence of local irritation nor dermatitis to same adhesive material. No differences were found before and after use of nsFP in CGMS mean glucose 180 mg/dl (153–202) versus 165 mg/dl (150–192). BMI SDS was slightly higher 0.44 (− 0.9–1.2) versus 0.25 (− 0.47–1.06), P  = 0.05. Conclusions This small-scale, single-site description of a simple intervention by nsFP and favorable outcome provides valuable insight for a simple solution for skin irritation and dermatitis in the pediatric population with T1D.