Effects of Imported Hand Cream Containing Various Reducing Substances on the Self-monitored Blood Glucose Level

Abstract

Self-monitoring of the blood glucose level using a portable blood glucose meter is important for diabetes treatment. It is known that measurement values are affected by various factors; however, there have been no reports regarding the effects of topical agents. We encountered a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus who exhibited underestimation of the blood glucose level after using an imported hand cream containing high levels of ascorbic acid and various reducing substances. We therefore investigated the effects of the hand cream on the blood glucose measurements in 10 healthy adults and evaluated differences in the values obtained with the colorimetric and enzyme electrode methods using portable blood glucose meter. Following application of the cream, the blood glucose levels significantly decreased (p=0.005) when measured using the colorimetric method and significantly increased (p=0.005) when measured using the enzyme electrode method compared to the values observed before application. These effects were reversed to the levels measured before application, with no significant differences observed after washing with water, although wiping with alcohol cotton was not effective. Education regarding self-monitoring of the blood glucose level requires a sufficient discussion with the patient regarding the use of topical agents, such as hand creams containing reducing substances, awareness of the effects of these creams and the importance of hand washing.