Effects of glucocorticoids on interstitial glucose concentrations in individuals with hematologic cancer and without known diagnosis of diabetes: a pilot study

OBJECTIVE: To analyze interstitial glucose behavior during glucocorticoid use in non-diabetic patients receiving chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies. METHODS: Prospective pilot study carried out to assess interstitial glucose levels in 15 non-diabetic individuals with hematologic malignancies who received glucocorticoids in combination with chemotherapy. The FreeStyle Libre flash monitoring system (Abbott Diabetes Care) was used for up to 14 days to measure interstitial glucose. RESULTS: Median age and body mass index were 53 (42-61) years and 25 (23-28) kg/m(2) respectively. Interstitial glucose levels >180mg/dL lasting at least one hour were detected in 60% of participants. Interstitial glucose profile parameters (median and peak interstitial glucose levels and percentage of time during which interstitial glucose levels were >180mg/dL) were significantly (p<0.01) higher during glucocorticoid use (115mg/dL, 218mg/dL and 10% respectively) than after glucocorticoid discontinuation (97mg/dL, 137mg/dL and 0% respectively). Mean interstitial glucose levels increased in the afternoon and at night during glucocorticoid use. CONCLUSION: This pilot study was the first to evaluate interstitial glucose levels in non-diabetic individuals using glucocorticoids in treatment of hematologic cancer. Glucocorticoid use during chemotherapy significantly increases interstitial glucose levels in these patients.