Abbott Develops Dual Glucose and Ketone Sensor to Monitor DKA Risks

Abbott Laboratories is developing a new continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that integrates ketone measurement technology. The device aims to provide users with early indicators of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious metabolic complication that occurs when insulin deficiency leads to toxic levels of ketones in the blood.

DKA is a frequent cause of emergency room visits and intensive care admissions. According to Dr. Mahmood Kazemi, divisional vice president and chief medical officer for Abbott’s Diabetes Care division, the condition often arises from insufficient insulin delivery, whether due to equipment malfunctions, cost-related rationing, or other factors. Data indicates that hospitalizations for DKA have trended upward over the last two decades, representing a significant burden on both patients and healthcare systems.

Currently, patients often use manual ketone test strips only after symptoms appear, at which point the medical condition may already be advanced. By incorporating both analytes into a single sensor, Abbott aims to allow for continuous, passive monitoring of metabolic status rather than reactive testing.

This technology is designed to offer a clearer clinical picture for patients, potentially reducing the incidence of life-threatening DKA episodes. The company continues to advance the development of the system as part of its focus on expanding the capabilities of its monitoring platforms.