METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR NON-INVASIVE DETERMINATION OF GLUCOSE IN BODY FLUIDS

Abstract: Method and apparatus for non-invasively determining glucose level in fluid of subject, typically blood glucose level. A particular device (10) is mounted on the skin of the patient for a fixed period of time. The device (10) is mounted on the skin such that a substrate such as paper (12) or gel or an aqueous glucose solution carried by the device are in contact with the patient's skin. Water and/or glucose migrates between the substrate (12) or the aqueous glucose solution of the device. The degree of migration of the substance in question is monitored, for example the amount of glucose remaining in an aqueous solution of the device is measured at the end of the fixed period. This can be done by a conventional or other spectrophotometric method, for example. The glucose level is determined based on the degree of migration of the migrating substance. That is, the degree of migration is correlated with previously determined fluid glucose levels based on directly measured fluid glucose levels. In another approach, impedance of skin tissue is measured and the measurement is used with impedance measurements previously correlated with directly determined glucose levels to determine the glucose level from the newly measured impedance. It is thus possible to routinely non-invasively determine fluid glucose levels.

Description: METHOD A APPARATUS FOR NON-INVASIVE DETERMINATION OF 6LUC08E IN BODY FLUIDS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to non-invasive methodβ and devices for determining the level of glucose in a body fluid of a subject. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION There are numerous reasons for determining the level of glucose present In body fluid of a subject in the case of a person suffering from diabetes, it is often necessaiy tσ determine the glucose level in blood daily, or even more frequently. Non-invasive approaches to determination of blood glucose levels have been suggested in the patent literature. For example, United States Patent No. 5,036,861 (issued to Sembrewich et al. on August 6, 1 Θ91) describes a wriβt-mσuntable device having an electrode which measures glucose present in sweat at the skin surface. United States Patent No. 5,222,496 (issued to Clarke era/, on June 29, 1893) describes an infrared glucose sensor ouπtable, for instance, on a wrist or finger, United States Patent No. 5,433,107 (issued to Stark on July 18. 1985) describes determination of blood glucose through illuminating a patient 1 ε eye with near-infrared radiation. United States Patent Nos. 5,115,133, 5,146,091 and 5,197,951 (issued to Kπudsoπ on May 19, 892, September 8, 1992 and January 19, 1993, respectively) describe measuring blood glucose within blood vessels of a tympanic membrane in a human ear through light absorption measurements. The specifications of all of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. The most common current approaches to determining blood glucose levels still appear to involve obtaining a sample of the person's Wood and then measuring the level of glucose In the sample. These approaches will not be reviewed here except to say that obtaining the blood sample necessarily involves en invasive technique. Generally, the person's skin is broken or lanced to cause an external flow of blood which is collected in same fashion for the glucose level determination. This can be both inconvenient and distressful for a person and it is an abject of the present invention to avoid the step of obtaining e blood sample directly, at least an a routine or daily basis. It is known that skin tissue, when immersed in an aqueous glucose solution, equilibrates linearly with the concentration of external glucose ("Glucose entry into the human epidermis. I. The Concentration of Glucose in the Human Epidermis', K.M. Halprin, A Ohkawara and K. Adachi, J. Invest Deππato/., 49(6); 559, 1967; "Glucose entry into the human epidermis. II. The penetration of glucose into the human epidermis in vitro', KM. Halprin and A. Ohkawara, J. Invest Derm., 49(B): 561, 1967). It has also been shown that skin glucose can vary in synchrony with blood level glucose during standardized tolerance testing In vivo ("The cutaneous glucose tolerance test I. A rate constant formula for glucose disappearance from the skin", . . Fusaro, A Johnson and J.V. Pilsum, J. Invest. Detmαtol., 42: 359, 1964; The cutaneous glucose tolerance test", R.M. Fuβaro and J.A. Johnson, J. Invest. Dβrmβtol ., 44: 230, 1969). It is also known for equilibration of glucose levels to occur between blood and interstitial fluids in contact with blood vessels C mlcrodtaryβiβ method allowing characterization of Interoellular water space In human*, P. Lormroth, P. A Jansson and U. Smith, 77w American Journal of Physiology, 253 (Endocrinoi. Metab., 18): E22B-E231 , 1ΘS7; 'Assessment of subcutaneous glucose concentration; validation of the wick technique as a reference for implanted electrochemical sensors hi normal and diabetic dogs," U. Ftachβr, R. Ertlβ, P. Abel, K. Rebrin, E. Bαmsteiπ, H. Hahπ von Dorβche and E . Freysβ. DidJatohgla, 30: 940, 1887). ImpiantatJon of dialysis needles equipped with glucose sensors has shown that orally Ingested glucose load is reflected by parallel changes in skin tissue glucose. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention Is a method and apparatus for non-invasively monitoring levels of glucose in a body fluid of a subject. Typically, blood glucose levels are determined In a human subject In a preferred embodiment the Invention is a method for non-invasively monitoring glucose in a body fluid of a subject in which the method inoludeβ stops of measuring impedance between two electrodes in conductive contact with a sk i surface of the subject and determining the amount of glucose tn the body fluid based upon the measured impedance. Typically, the body fluid In which It Is desired to know the level of glucose is blood. In this way, the method can bo used to assist in determining levels of Insulin administration. The step of determining the amount of glucose can include comparing the measured impedance with a predetermined relationship between impedance and blood glucose level, further details of which are described below In connection with preferred embodiments. In certain embodiments, impedance is measured at a plurality of frequencies, and the method includes determining the ratio of one or more pairs of measurements and determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid includes comparing the determined ratJo(s) with corresponding predetermined ratlo(β), i.e., that have been previously correlated with directly measured glucose levels. The β W sito can be located on the volar forearm, dew to me behind an ear of a human subject Typically, the skin surface ia treated with a saline solution prior to the meaβuring stop. An electrically conductive gel can be applied to the skin to enhance the conductive contact of the electrodes with the skin surface during the measuring step. The electrodes can be in operative connection with a computer chip programmed to determine the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the measured impedance. There can be an Indicator opβrstiveiy connected to the computer chip for indication of the determined amount of glucose to the subject The indicator can provide a visual display to the subject. ln certain embodiments, the computer chip to operatively connected to an insulin pump and the computer chip is programmed to adjust the amount of insuBπ flow via the pump to the subject in response to the determined amount of glucose. Electrodes of a probe of the invenUon can be spaced between about 0.2 mm end about 2 cm from each other. In another aspect the invention la an apparatus for norHnvasjve monitoring of glucose in a body fluid of a subject The apparatus includes means for measuring impedance of skin tissue In reβponse to a voltage applied thereto and a microprocessor operatively connected to the means for measuring impedance, for determining the amount of glucose In the body fluid based upon the Impedance meβaurement Thβ mβartstor meβsurlng impedancw ofsWπ tJββue can include a pair αf spaced apart electrodes for electrically conductive contact with a akin surface, The microprocessor can be programmed to compare the measured impedance with a predetermined correlation between impedance and blood glucose level. The apparatus can include means for measuring impedance at a plurality frequencies of the applied voltage and the programme can include means for determining the ratto of one or more pairs of the impedence meaβurements and means for compering the determined ratio(β) wRh corresponding predetermined ratiσfβ) to determine the amount of glucose in the body fluid. The apparatus preferably Includes an indicator operatively connected to the microprocessor for indication of the determined amount of glucose. The Indicator can provide a visual display for the subject to read the determined amount of glucose. It is possible that the indicator would indicate if the glucose level to butskte of an acceptable range. In a particular embodiment the microprocessor to operatively connected to an insulin pump end the apparatus Includes means to adjust the amount of insulin flow via the pump to the subject in response to the determined amount of glucose. The apparatus can include β case having means for mounting the apparatus on the forearm of a human subject with the electrodes In electrically conductive contact with β skin surface of the subject. In another embodiment, the invenUon la a method for monitoring the level of glucose in a body fluid by contacting a skin surface of the subject with a substrate capable of absorbing water to permit migration of water between the substrate end the sWn. This Is followed by monitoring the migration of water between the substrate end the skin and determining the β mount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the monitored amount of water migration. The body fluid can be interstitial body fluid, but biood glucose level is likely to be of more interest. In situations whore the level of the constituent glucose is monitored to indirectly determine its level in another fluid, say by monitoring the level of glucose in interstitial fluid to determine the level of glucose In Wood plasma, the interstitial body fluid must be reflective of the level in the other fluid. The skin oβn be contacted with the substrate for a predetermined time period and monitoring the migration of water can be weighing the substrate subsequent to the cσntecting stop The time period can hn anywhere between about 1 minute and about ? hours but a time period between about 5 minutes end about 1 hour a more preferred, but the time period can also be between about 10 minutes and about 45 minutes, between about 20 minutes and about 40 minutes or about 30 minutes. The substrate can be paper. The substrate can have a contact area with the skin of between about 1 cm 2 and about 9 cm 1 , or between about 2 cm 2 and about 6 cm 1 . In the working embodiment described further below, the contact area wac about A cm 2 . In embodiments desctibed in detail below, Hie subsϋalβ beats it sufndenUy small amount of water prior to the contacting step such that the migrnt ' on of water k from the skin to the substrate during the contacting step. The monitoring step can include measuring electrical resistance of the substrate in contact with the ekin surface. The monitoring step can include determining the length of time it lakes ll l measuiBd ma&b.iiuβ to c ange a fixed amount and cυnelatiuy ttι& change with blood glucose levels determineri directly In a particular embodiment, the invention is a method for monitoring the level of glucose present in a body fluid of a sutxeci wnicn Includes contacting a skin surface of the subject with an aqueous glucose solution of predetermined concentration to permit migration of the water and the glucose between interstitial skin fluid and the solution. The method includes monitoring the amount ot glucose present in the solution and determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid baeed upon the monitored amount of glucoεβ in the eolution. The determination is generally based on a prior calibration In which amounts of migration have been correlated with directly measured body fluid amounts of glucose in question. The blood glucose level of the subject can be determined based on the monitored amount of glucose in the solution. In an embodiment deecribed in detail below, tho predetermined concentration of glucose in the solution is sufficiently high that migration of the glucose is from the solution and into the skin. The monitoring ste can includ* determining the amount of the glucose in the solution after the substrate has been in contact with the skin for a predetermined length of time. The predetermined length of time can be between about i minute and about * _ * hours: between about 5 minutes and about 1 hour, between about 1 minutes and about AS minuteε; between about 20 minutes and about 40 minutes, υi about 30 iniiiule*.. The aqueous solution can include a wetting agent, for example, propylene glycol. The concentration o( glucose in the solution, prior to the contacting step would generally be between about 50 and about 1000 mgs d ; between about 200 and about 700 mgs/dL; between about 400 and about 000 rngs dl.; or about 475 mgs dL. In one arrangement, a semi-permeable membrane is located between the solution and the skin to provide indirect contact of the εkin and eolution therethrough during the coiTtactin step. As mentioned, the body fluid can be blood and non-invasively determining the amount of glucose in the blood can include correlating the determined concentration of glucose in the solution with directly determined blood glucose levels using previously determined data. The volumo of the eolution can be between about 0.1 ml and about 1 ml; 5 between about 0.2 ml and about 0.7 ml; between about 0.3 ml and aboul 0.5 ml; uι abυul 0.4 ml. The contact area between the skin and solution can he between a hoi it 0 OS in' (0.3 cm 1 ) and about 4 in 2 (25 cm 2 ); between about 0.2 in 2 (1.3 cm 2 ) and about 1 in* (6.5 cm 2 ); or about 0.4 tn' (-..« cm 1 ). I he contact can be direct, or indirect, as through a semi-permeable membrane that permits diffusion of water and glucose. 0 The meUiυu can be ueifυimed using a haiid-liu l deviue in which the solution is contained, the device including a solution contact area dimensioned for contacting the solution with a wrist of a human subject. According to another embodiment or the invention, there is a method for monitoring glucose in a body fluid of a subject which includes contacting a skin surface of the * 3 subject with a substrate substantially free of g lucose so as to permit migration of glucose between the body fluid and the substrate. I he method also includes monitoring, the amount oτ glucose present in the substrate and determining the amount of glucoee in the body fluid baeed upon the monitored amount of the glucose in the substrate. According lo this embodiment, ihe substrate is free of a glucose transport inhibitor or an exogenous source of energy, or the skin 0 has not been induced to sweat The substrate can be paper. I he body fluid can be interstitial body ?luιd. but again, blood glucose tevei is likely to be of more interest. The skin can be contacted wllh lite subsUale fc-i a μiedelemilned time μeiitxl and monitoring the amount of glucose present in the substrate can include determining the 5 amount of glucose in substrate at the end of the time period. in a method in wnich the substrate is paper, the amount of the glucose borne by the paper can be determined by transferring the paper to a pre-determlned amount of water and deleimiitiny the amount, of glucose borne by Uie su sum based υn the coπcenlialioii uf glucose dissolved in the water The concentration nf glucose dissolved In the water can he determined 0 3pectrophotometrically. The determination can include reacting the glucose with a reagent to generate a chromop ore which absorbs light in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The predetermined time period can b* anywhere between about 1 minute and about 2 hours, but a time period between about 5 minutes and about 1 hour is more preferred. 5 but the time period con also be between obout 1 minutes end ebout 45 minutes, between ebout 20 minutes and about 40 minutes or about 30 minutes. A paper substrate can have a contact area with the skin of between about 1 cm 2 and about 9 cm 2 , between about 2 cm 2 and about € cm 1 . In the working embodiment described runner below, the contact area was about 4 cm*. - θ - According to another embodiment, the invention s a method tor monitoring the blood glucoee level of a eubject which includes contacting a skin surface of the subject with e substrate bearing a known amount of glucose, so as to permit migration of glucose between the skin e the substrate: monitoring the amount of the glucose in the substrate; and determining 5 the blood glucose level of the subject based upon the monitored amount of glucose in the substrate. The subetrate can be paper or it can be a gel, particularly a water-based gel. In a particular aspect, desciibed fuitliei below, the known amount or glucose is sufficiently high that migration of the glucose is from the substrate and into the akin. 10 The okin can be contacted with the substrate for a predetermined time period and monitoring the amount of glucose present in the substrate can include determining the amount of glucose in the substrate after the time period. The amount of glucose borne by a 2 cm x 2 cm paper, for example, prior to contact can be between about 0.05 and about 0.5 mgs, under particular circumstances, the preferred amount might be between about 0.1 and about 0.4 15 mge, or even between about 0.2 and 0.3mge. The paper can be, for example, traneferred after Uie oπtac-ϋiiu sleμ lu a pi e-delei mined amount of water and the amount of glucose borne by the paper determined based on the concentration of glucose dissolved in the water. The concentration of glucose dissolved in the water can be determined spectrophotometrically. Further, spectrophotometric determination can include reactino the glucose with a reagent to 20 generate a chromophore which abeorbc light in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The predetermined time period can be anywhere between about 1 minirre and about 2 hours, but a time period between about 5 minutes and about 1 hour is more preferred, but the time period can also be between about 10 minutes and about 45 minutes, between about 25 20 minutes and about 40 minutes, or about 30 minutes. A paper substrate can have a contact area with the sKjtt of between about 1 our and about 9 cm 1 , between about 2 cm 2 and about 6 cnr. In the working embodiment described further below, the contact area was about 4 cm 2 . A gel substrate, as descnbed below in connection with a particular embodiment, 30 can have a semi-permeable membrane located between the substrate and the skin to provide indirect contact of the skin and gel therethrough during the contacting step. I ne concentration ot glucose in a gel substrate can be up to about 600 mgs/dl or between about 50 and 500 mge/dL, but depending upon circumstances the preferred amount iiiiyhl be between about 100 and 500 mgs dL, or even somewhere between 200 and about 500 3ft -Tvgs/irll prior to the contacting step. Optimization would be carried out to determine the best concentration under particular circumstances, bearing in mind that a particular application, s already mentioned, requires that the glucose concentration be sufficiently high to permit migration of glucose from gel to the skin. Another embodiment of the invention is a device for monitoring the level of blood glucose of a subject. The device includes a substrate bearing a known amount of glucose, the substrate having tne property that the glucose can treβly diffuse, when in contact with human skin, along a concentration gradient of the glucose between the substrate and skin, the subetrate iiioludiiiy a surface fυi said contact, and an υ clusive coveting. The device can he hand-held device and have a contact area dimensioned for contact with o wrist of a human subject. The contact surface can be provided by β membrane permeable to glucose. The contact area can be between about 0.05 iπ : (0.3 cm') and about 4 In 2 (25 cm 2 ). The substrate of device can be paper or a gel, particularly a water ased gel. I he volume ot the gel can be between about 0.1 ml and about 1 mi. A device having a membrane can be provided with a releaeable protective covering for the membrane. The concentration of glucose in gel can be between about 50 mgs/dL and about 1000 mgs dL. Another device of the invention includes a well containing an aqueous glucose solution of predetermined concentration and a surface beanng a pressure-sensitive adhesive surrounding an upper portion of the well, to permit mounting of the device on a skin surface of the subject with the solution In contact with the skin surface. The device can include means for obtaining a sample of the glucose solution from the well when the device is mounted on the skin surface. A preferred means is a membrane located to be accessible when the device is mounted on the skin surface and sucn that it may be punctured in order to obtain the cample. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 shows a first embodiment device of the present invention in which the substrate is paper; Figure 1 a shows a variant of the first embodiment device; Figure 2 is plot of spectral absorbance at 635 nm of the eiuate of paper strips treated with glucose ploαed against the amount (mgs) of glucose added to the stnps. ϊ ne eiuate of the paper was treated with a Toluidine Glucose Reagent Kit, (#635, Sigma, St. Louis, Missouri); igυres 3 and 4 are representative plots of spectral absorbance (635 nm) r>f eiuate of paper stripe vε the directly determined blood glucose lovcl of human subjects (mmol L). Fυi each μuinl. Hie subject was Healed for thirty minutes with a paper strip to hich 0.1 ml of solution (glucose, 300 milligrams percent, and hnlate sodium salt, 2 grams percent) had been applied and dried under ambient conditions. The eiuate of each paper strip was treated with a Toluidine Glucose Reagent Kit and absorbance determined (v-ans). After the thirty minute - 6 - exposure. a blood sample was taken from the subject and the blood glucose level determined directly from the sample using an Elite Gluco eter (x-axic); Figure 5 is a plot of sμect-al aLβυi ance (635 urn) υf eluale of paper strips vs directly determined blood glucose level of human subjects (mmni/l ) The conditinns under whioh the experiments were conducted were similar to thoae described for Figures 3 end 4, but in this case, urea', 10 grams percent had also been applied to eacn paper strip: Figure β shows a second embodiment device of the present invention; Tigure 7 is a plot of eff sate glucose concentration (mgsdL) vs effusion time (minutes), obtained using the second embodiment ot the device. The gel of the device wes composed of Carbopol 1 gram percent and gluooβe 400 mge weight pcroont in water. The device was υi illed will) lite membrane facing upwardly and a volume of water (50 or 100 μf) was place on the membrane. Glucose was allowed to effuse from gel across the membrane and into the drop of water where initial concentration of the glucose was zero. The concentration of glucose present in the known volume of water was measured at 1 υ minute intervals with an Elite Glucometer and plotted as a function of time; Figure 8 is a rep esentative μlυl υf efiusale ylucu&e cυπ enlialiυπ (mgs/dL.) vs effusion time (minutes), obtained using the second embodiment device after being planed in contact with a person's skin. T e gel of the device as composed of Carbopol 1 gram percent and glucose 400 mgs percent The top curve of the plot shows effusion of αlucose from gel in a calibration experiment prior (pre) to application to skin. The bottom curve shows results obtained after (post) application of device to a person's wrist for 30 minutes; Figure 9 is similar to Figure 8 but in this case urea 5 gms percent was also included in the gel composition uood to obtain the results; Figure 10 Is a plot of weight (mgs) of water absorbed and retained by a paper (first embodiment device) from a person's skin over 30 minutes as a function of the person's blood glucose level (Mmol L) measured directly using an Elite Glucuinetei , Figure 11 is a plot ot the concentration of glucose present in a paper substrate (first embodiment device) (abcorbanco at 505 nm) determined using the Trinder Cluoose Reagent Kit. #315- 100, (Sigma, St. Louis, Missouri) as a function or weight (mgs) of water absorbed and retained by the paper substrate from a person's skin over 30 minutes; Figure 12 is a plot of electrical resistance (MQ) against time (minutes) as measured through an EKG type electrode used as an occlusrve bandage tor a paper substrate; Figure 13 show the data of Figure 13 replotted as log resistance oo a function of time (minutes), Figure 14 is a plot of the time (minutes) teken fnr DC resistance to decrease a standardized amount (160 x 10 3 Ω) using the EKG type electrode as an occlusrve backing for a paper substrate held against tne skin of a person, plotted against the blood glucose level ol the person, measured directly; Figure 15 is a representative plol sliυwing glucose concenlration (mgs/dL) retained in 0.4 ml of an aqueous solution contained in the well of a vanant of the Figure 6 device (see text) after exposure to a person's skin for 30 minutes as a function of the person's blood glucose level ( gs υ measured directly using an fciite Glucometer. initial glucose concentration S wae 475 mgs/dL; Fkjuie 18 is a μlolbliυwtity the leading (aveiaye υf ten leadings) υf a dmiiial phase meter as a function of directly determined hlnori glucose concentration Measurements were taken on a sue on the left forearm ( • ) and right forearm (*); and Figure 17 is similar to Figure 16. but readings were taken at a finger. 0 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Turning to Figure 1 ot the drawings, patch device 10 includes absorbent paper ctrip 12, occlueive barrier 14, coft contour cushion 16, and adhesive top plaetio bandage 18. Paper strip 12, can be, for example, a 2 cm x 4 cm piece of chromatography paper (Whatman No. 1 Chr) folded over on itself to form a square Occlusrve barrier 14 is of an impermeable 5 flexible plastic mateπal bonded to soft contour cushion 16. Contour cushion 16 is bonded to piasoc bandage material 18. Device 10 is placed over a skin site, typically the wnst. and held in place by ends of bandage 18 beanng a skin adhesive The absorbent paper strip is then inserted between llie skin and υcclusive baniei 14 lu μeiuiil liaiisμυil of biυclιeιιιicah» uf inleiesL belweeπ the skin and the paper substrate Such hinrhemicals nf interest include glucose and water 0 involved in monitoring the diabetic condition of skin. Alternatively, the absorbent paper stnp may be positioned beneath a metal electrode 20 which ic inserted between device 10 and the εkin. ae illustrated in Figure 1a. In use, device 10 ib placed υvui the skin site and fixed by dllacliiiiy adhesive ends of bandage 18 to the skin The absorbent paper substrate is inserted between the skin and 5 occluded surface 14 of the device. In cxpcnmcnts descπbed further below, a stock equeou3 solution of glucose was made to the concentration required to provide a desired amount or glucose to be deposited by micropφette to the paper strip which was allowed to dry at room temperature prior to use The amount of gluuose remaining with the absuibeut μaμoi ulntiale alter skin contact was determined by inserting the paper stnp into a screw cap test tube Test 0 roαgcnt (Toluidine Kit, #6356, Sig a, St. Louis) was admitted, the cap attached and the mixture heated at 1 0'C for 10 minutes The color which developed was measured at a wavelength of 635 nm in 1 cm transmission spectral cells and the concentration of glucose present determined from the amount of spectral absorption Absorbance as a function of known amounts of ylucυse added to paper stπps is plotted in Figure 2. to establish that observed absorbance is in proportion 5 to the amount of glucoee present in oiio il of experiments, the chromatographic paper was loaded with 0 1 ml of a solution (glucose, 300 mgs percent and cholare sodium salt. 7 gm percent) and dned in room air. Cholatco have been found to enhance penetration of glucose into an external hydrogel as desrribed in United States Patent No. 5,139,023 (issued to Carey etal. on May 24, 1888), the specification of which is incorporated herein by referenue. The amount υf glucose remaining with the subetrate after 30 minutes was plotted es a function of Wood glucose determined directly from a blood cample using α lαncot prick and measuring the blood glucose concentration using an Elite Glucometer (Miles Canada, Olagnostics Division, Division of (Bayer). Typical results are shown In Figures 3 and 4. United States Patent No. 4,746,508, the specification of which iε incorporated herein by reference, describes bile salt analogs that have penetration enhancement properties. Another set of similar experiments wee oβrriβd out in which tho chromatography paper was loaded with 0.10 ml υf a solution (glucose. 300 mgs percent and urea, 1 gms percent) and dried In room air The results are plotted in Figure 5. Another embodiment of a device of the Invention is patch device 22 shown in Figure 6. Device 22 includes a substrate well 24 (Methocel gel 0.t>%. Isotomc (sodium chloride) Gel, and buffered Isotonic Gel and gel with penetration enhancers such ac urea, substituted ureas, choiates, lecithins, aliphatic aiuoliu , aliphatic; adds, subsliluled aliphatic acids and βmulsiners). lower membrane material 26 (BinFill - hiolrvjir-al skin substitut , microcrystalline oellulooc, Productoβ Biotconologiooe 6A, Bom etjro, Curitiba, Parana, Orazil), insert rubber ring la and upper Impermeable transparent plate 30. The transparent plate could be replaced by a second membrane. Intermediate collar 32a, having adhesive on both ite upper and lower surfaces, secures the lower membiane lu Hie lub ei ling. Upper collar 32b, having adhesive on both Its upper and lower surfaces secures transparent plate 30 to the rubber nng Lowermost collar 32c, having odhcaJvc on both its upper and tower surfaces, secures protective impermeable tape 34 to the underside of the device so that the tape covers lower membrane 26 For use, the well is filled with a glucose solution and the device ie closed by the upper impermeable plate and the bottom membrane. A skin site is μieμaied by wiping with a preparatory pad and allowed to dry. The lower protective paper is removed from the lower adhesive collar and the device ic placed in contact with the skin The inner diameter of ring wuu l typically be belween about 025 Inches (0.64 cm) and about 05 inches (1.3 cm) and it could typl ally have a depth of between about 0.04 inches (0 1 cm) and about 0.16 inches (0 4 cm). These dimensions of course can be optimized in teims υf liie υverall gel volume needed or desired and the surface area provided tor exposure to person's skin in use The lower collar typically has an outer diameter of about Vλ inches (3.2 em) and again the collar dimensions and adhesive used can be varied to obtain suitable adhesion of the device to a person's skin lor the length of time it is to be adhered thereto Other possible materials that might be used as a iiiembiatie include membranous tissue material used to make Kling Tite™, Naturalamh™ natural skin rondoms, Trojan™ premium product, Carter Wallace, Cranbury, New Jersey. USA, Cyclopore membranes, hydrophylic and hyvJiυμ υbic, (Whatman Inc.), and Gelman membranes. Any semi-permeaDle membrane that permits the so ιte(s) of interest to diffuse therethrough reprodu biy would be suitable. Carbopol is a polymer of acrylic acid crosslinked with a polyfunctional agent (B.F. Goodrich). Another possible gel would be Methocel (Dow Chemical, Midland, Michigan), w ich is a walei iius ble μυlyiiiei υf liydiυxyμiυjjyl inelli 'cellulose. OUiei Gelling agents include collagen, gelatin, silica gel and other hydrophilic materials which provide gel strength, dissolve the βolutβfa) of interest and permit diffuaion of the solute(s). Cel solutions used may contain sufficient sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate to establish isotonic conditions compatible with that of interstitial fluid. Isotonic gel, pH and other agents may be adjusted to facilitate penetration of glucose through stratum corneum. The membrane and gel must be compatible with each other In the sense that the membrane must retain the gel while permitting diffusion of the colute(c) of interest. As with the paper substrate described above, the gel ts usually loaded with glucose and the glucose concentration is chosen to be great enough to diffuse through the lower membrane and into the skin. It might be found preferable to manufacture more than one standard or pre-selected gel, say tnree gels, naving low. medium and high glucose 5 concentrations that each provide satisfactory performance under particular circumetancec For example, it might be fuuud that a gel having a lelalively high glucose concentration works particularly well for use following a heavy meal The optimum value would he determined by the need to exceed the peek load while at the same time avoiding saturating the skin site, but at the same time the necessity of having a measurable difference between the initial and final levels of glucose in the substrate gel. It might be necessary to select based upon individual glucoee tolerance curve*. Optimization of sampling time might vaiy depending uμυii site ylucυse level and the rate of transfer possible to achieve between the get and site After α given length of time, device 22 b removed from the subject's skin. The qlucose concentration In the gel can be determined by inserang the electrometric probe of an 5 Elite Glucometer into the gel and drawing a small amount of the coluton. about 3 μl, into the probe. The glucometer yields a iβadmy m about a minute Results obtained using device 22 are shown in Figures 7. 8 and 9 In a first set of experiments (Figure 7), α gel substrate (loaded with glucose. 400 mgs percent) was placed in the reservoir well and calibrated by measuring the concentration of glucose which had effused 0 across the semipermeable membrane into a 100 μl drop of water placed on top of the semipermeable membrane (the device being in a position inverted to that shown in Figure G). Figure 7 shows the concentration ot glucose measured in the water droplet as a function of time Conversion of concentration data to logarithmic form shows that the glucose effuses from the mseivuii well into lite water drop according to first-order kinetics for mass transfer, that is. that S the transfer of glucose into the external volume of water is consistent with a diffusion-limited process. In another set of expenments. tne device was placed on the wnst oτ human subjects with the semipermeable membrane against the skin to permit glucose to diffuse from the reservoir well across the semipermeable membrane into the skin for thirty minutes. Thereatter. the calibration procedure was repeated to determine the remaining concentration of glucoee. Figure 8 chows the calibration procedure pre- (upper plot) and post-application (lower plot) of the device to skin of human sub|ects. The slower rate of effusion of glucose (post vs pre) from the reservoir chamber into a 100 μl water drop indicates that post glucose concentration is less than that of the pre condition. The difference in glucose concentration reflects the amount of glucose which diffused from the gel into the sum. Similar experiments were earned out with a similar gel containing 5% urcα, the Jesuits being sliuwn in Figure 9. In another series of experiments, effusion of water from the skin was measured , Water taken up from the skin using an occlusrve patch device similar to that shown in Figure 1 was determined. In these experiments, however, no glucose was added to the paper pnor to positioning the deviee on a person's skin. In a first set of experiments, the device wac left in place for 30 minutes and then the paper was weighed. The μeisυu's blυud glucose level was also determined directly using an Elite glucometer as described above Representative data are plotted in Figure 10. As can bo scon, there is an increase in water absorbed by the paper from the skin with increasing blood glucose concentration. These expenments were extended by measuring the amount of glucose taken up by the paper substrate of the device as determined using a Trinder enzymatic assay. The amount of glucose (absorbance at 605 nm) plotted as a function of the amount of water taken up from the skin water (mge) ie chown in Figure 11. A similar experiment was carried out In which occluded paper strips were analyzed for water absorbed and retained in situ using EKG type metal electrodes for occlusion, figure 1a. DC chmmeter type instruments showed that leteiitton υf walei undei a metal electrode occlusion decreased DC resistance See Figures 1? and 13 In Figure 1?, elertπcal reeietance (MΩ) ic plotted αc a function of time In Figure 13, log R is plotted as function of time, showing that the decrease in resistance Is, at least approximately, a first order process Blood glucose levels were also determined directly, as before, over time. The time taken for resistance to decrease a standardized amount (1S0 x 10~Ω) was plotted against the diieutly ineasuied glucose level. See Figure 14. As can be seen, the bmβ tor the resistance to decrease the standardized amount decreased with the directly measured blood glucose level. A modification of the Figure 6 device was used to obtain the results shown tn Figure 15 In the modified device, upper plate 30 and collar 32b were replaced with an adhesive film. Lower mombranβ 26 and intermediate collar 32a were omitted, collar 32c remaining for adherence or the device to the skin. Well 24 was rilled with a 04 ml ot solution having a glucose concentration of about 475 mgε/dl and about 5 gmc percent of propylene glycol. Propylene ulyu-l is a welling ayenl used lυ enhance diffusive contact of the aqueous solution of glucose with the skin. The device, oriented in a position inverted to that illustrated, was fixed to the skin by lifting the filled horizontal device to bring it into contact with the forearm of a subject held liυiizυiilally above the device. The arm with the device affixed thereto can be moved freery. without particular restraint, although care must be taken to avoid disturbing the device and to preclude detachment fiυni the aim. Aftei abυul Uiiity minutes, Uie ai was oriented with the device oriented upwardly with the outer film on top. The film was punctured and the electrode tip of an Elite Glucometer was inserted directly into the solution in the well of the device to measure the glucose concentration. Blood glucose levels were determined as above and glucose level of the solution (mgs/dL) was plotted as a function of the blood glucose level. 3ee Figure 15. As can be seen, the glucose remaining in the device alter 30 minutes decreases with increasing blood glucose level. AnυUiei embodiment of the invention involves measurement of impedance at the skin surfac Experiments were carried out with measurements being taken with a dermal phoao motor (DPM) ovαiloble from Nova"' Technology Corporation of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Measurements were taken at two skin sites, the forearm and the middle finger. The scale of the meter is from 90 to 999. It is thought that a higher reading indicates a higher degree of skin hydration. Blood glucose measurement-* were also measured directly (Mys dL) using an Elite Glucometer. as described above. Measurements were taken at various times to track changes in skin hydration from that present while fasting overnight, attending ingestion of a typical meal for breakfast or lunch and following a peak of biood glucose and decline to about 100 Mgs dL. In these experiment, a probe sensor was placed against the skin surface and held lightly until the instrument indicated completion of date acquisition. Time interval (latch time) for data acquisition wae selected at zero seconds (instantaneous). Other suitable time periods can be anywheie 0 and 30 seconds, or between 0.5 and about 10 seconds, or between about 1 and 5 seconds or ahont 5 seconds. The results obtained using the dermal phase meter are plotted as function of blood glucose concentration in Tigures 16 and 17, respectively. Each plotted point represents the average or 10 measurements using the dermal phase meter. The data of Figures 10, 12 end 1 -1 show that water abcorbed by a paper substrate (for a fixed period of lime) inci eases will) in i easing blood glucose concentration. The data of Figure 11 show that the amount of glucose which migrates to a paper substrate (over a fixed time period) increases with increasing blood glucose concentration. It is thus clear that both water and glucose are capable of migrating tnrougn the corneum stratum of the skin. The data of Figure 15 show that migration of glucose from water (of a device containing 0.4 ml of a 475 mgs/dL glucose In water solution) into the skjn Increases with increasing blood glucose. Figures 16 and 17 indicate that the degree of hydration of the skin increases with increasing blood glucose concentration. A possible explanation for the foregoing observations is now given, altnougn tne inventor does not wish to be limited by any theory. The approach used to obtain the results shown herein, and in particular in figures 15 to 17, can be used to non-invasively determine the blood glucose level of a subject and this benefit of the invention is not diminished by the prcoonoβ or absence of the following explanation. It Is assumed that the pathway by which water travels into the skin is by means of interstitial spaces or channels. From the results of Figure 10 it b inferred that the water 5 contained in such interstitial spaces iiim eases willi increasing blood glucose concentration. As the glucose concentration of such interstitial fluid is reflective of blood glucose level, the glucose concentration in the interstitial fluid olao increases with increasing Wood glucose conceiitialiυii. As an explanation for the downward slope of the data plotted in Houre 15. a two-step process is proposed Firstly, water from the device "hydrates' the skin. Water diffueee moro rapidly than 0 glucose from the device into the interstitial spaces to which it I las access Uiiυugh the stratum corneum. There Is a limit to the amount ot water which can be contained in such spaces. In a second, slower step, but one which ie promoted by inorcαscd hydration of the skin, glucose diffuses from the device ink) the interstitial channels, it would be expected that the rate or the second step would he in some proportion to the difference between the concentration!* of 5 glucose in the device and the interstitial spaces, in any event, since the deyiee υf skin hydration Increases With the blood glucose ot the subject, "full" hydration of the s in through the first step of the process occurs more rapidly with inereaeing blood glucose concentration. This in turn means that the second step occur* mυie leadily when the blood glucose of me subject is higher, n is thus observed that the amount of glucose which diffuses from the device into the skin increases 0 with increasing gluooso concentration. It is likely that the two steps of the process uυcui simultaneously to some extent (although at different rates), but the results of Fiπur* 15 indicate that the first step of the process predominates and hence the degree of glucose depletion from the device depends more on the initial dβyiee υf liydialiun of the skin than on the concentration of glucose in the interstitial spaces. The data plotted in Figures 16 and 17 indicate that the 5 degree of ekin hydration. measured over β relatively short period of time, increases with blυυd glucose concentration. Returning to the data plotted In Figures 3, A and 5, in which the substrate bearing glucose was paper, the substrate beais insufficient water for the hydration process to occur appreciably, the second step of the process predominates and hence the degree of 0 glucose depletion from tho paper substrate is inversely related to the concentration of glucose in the intόistiiial sp ces and hence also to blood glucose concentration. A substrate of the present invention, for use in connection with on aspect of this invention in which glucose is loaded to the substrate μiiυi (υ use has the property that a suitable amount of glucose can be loaded to the substrate and retained hy the substrate, subject to λ.S proper storage, until the substrate ic brought into contact with skin A substrate for use in connection with an aspect of t is invenUon In which glucose transfers to an unloaded substrate has the property that transfer, i.β . diffusion of the glucose into the substrate occurs readily. Tho tcct subjects of the experiments described above were (ion-diabetic and free υf any aμυaienl endocrtnoloqlcal abnormality that would compromise the observed results Studies were performed in the morning on facfcng subjects After baseline measurements on fasting, food was ingested lu ιaise blood glucose levels Studies continued until blood glucose levels declined to baseline leve In accordance with the theory proffered above for the results showi i it i Fiyuie 15, it is contemplated that a migratory substance other than glucose could be monitored in order to determine the blood glucose level of a subject. In one contemplated approach, an aqueous solution of a substance which, like watei, iinyiules leadily into interstitial spaces could be used. In a second alternative contemplated approach an aqueous solution of a substance which, like glucoee, migrates slowly into the interstitial 3paces could be used. In either case, a substance that provides advantageous Ugm-absorbance characteristics for convenient monttoπng could be chosen. Further, since K might well be possible to use a substance which te not present in tho interstitial spaces of skin (or occurs at a constant coiicβntialiυn therein) the rate of the second step ot tne process would be uncomplicated by the presence of the stihsfanre in the interstitial space, as could potentially cauee problems with glucose. The use of such a substance would thus μiuvrjβ the added advantage that the diffusion thereof would be Independent of glucose concentration and has the potential of providing even more reliable results than those obtainable through the monitoπng of glucose A particularly useful embodiment of the present invention relies on the relaboπship between measured impedance and blood glucose level It is possible to non- invasively measure impedance υf skin tissue using a device which operates along the lines of the ■ Surface Characterizing Impedance Monitor (SCIM) developed by Ollmar ('Instrument evaluation of ckin irritation", P.Y. Rizvt, B. . Morrison, Jr., M.J. Grove and Q L Orove, Cos/nef/c-. & Toiletries 111 39, 199b; " tlectncal impedance index in human skin Measurements after occlusion, in 5 anatomical regions and in mild irritant contact dermatitis', L [.mtestam and 3 Ollniai , Cυnl Dvitn. 28, 337, I97S, "Eleσrtcal Impedance for estimation of irritation in oral mnrnsa and skin", S Ollmar, E. Eek, F. Sundstrom and Emteεtam, Medical Progress Through Technology, 21 29, 1995, 'Electrical impedance compared with other non-Invasive bioengineenng techniques and visual sroπng for detection of irritation in human skin", S. Ollmar, M. Nyrβn, I Nicαndcr and L, Emtestam, Brit J. Detmetol. 130: 29, 1994 ) which mβasuit-s btolele rtcai Impedance of the skin at multiple frequencies In one aspect, electrodes of such a device arc placed in conductive contact with a subject's skin in order to mea&uie Impedance (Z) at vanous frequencies (!) In a range from a few Hertz (h2) to about 5 Mhz. Electrodes of the device are electrically connected to a meteπng device which indicates the impedance at e selected frequency of applied voltage, as undei stυυu by a μeison skilled in the art In a preferred embodiment ot the invention the device is programmed to operate at the selected frequencies in rapid eequcncc Alternative modes of operation are possible, for example, the voltage can be rapidly inoeased with time and Fourier transformation earned out to obtain a frequency spectrum Ratios of impedance measured at various frequencies are determined and the blood glucose level of the subject is measured directly. This process is repeated at different times so as to make the determination at a number of different glucose levels. In this way. ratios of impedance tlelei mined al particular frequencies Which are found to reproduαbly retted a person's blood glucose levels over a range of glucose levels are determined. The ratios of measured impedence et the selected frequencies can thus be cx>[ related wtth directly measured glucose levels, that is. a plot in which log(Z,/ZJ vs log (0 is Λ linear correlation, or en approximately linear correlation, is determined. This relationship ic then used to determine the blood glucose level of the person directly from fatius υf sintilaily obtained impedance measurements, thus avoiding an Invasive technique for obtaining the blood glucose level. Impedance includes both resistance and reactance. H may be found foi a proportion of the population that there is a universal set of impedance frequency ratios, thus avoiding the necessity of determining individual correlations. It Is important, of course, to be able to reliably reproduce results as much as possible In order for this type of device to be useful. To this end an appropriate skin site is chosen. Generally speaking, an undamaged skin site and one that * not heavily ccarrcd would be chosen. A skin site having a stratum coineum w ich is less likely (υ delelβitυusly interfere wtth the measurements is chosen. A likely possibility ts the voter forearm, down to the wrist, or behind an ear. The εkin curfaoo can be treated just pπor to measurement in order to render the stratum corneum more electrically transparent by application, for example, of a physiological saline dressing for about a minute. Excess liquid should be removed before application of the probe. Given the Importance of reliable glucose level determinations in setting insulin adminietrationc, it ic important thot the invention be used only in circumstances In which it is known thai the approach described herein reliably indicates αlucosβ levels of a subject. It is possible that the invention would not be suitable for use with a given proportion of the population or 100% of the time with a given individual. Tor example, an individual niay have skin cυinJiliυii which deietenously interferes with impedance measurements, making rt difficult to assume that impedance measurements can reliably indicate a person's blood glucose level. For such a person, a diffeieut appiυacli lυ glucose level determination would be more sultaoie. It may be advantageous to optimize the spacing of the electrodes of the probe That is, it may found that the electrodes of a CCIM probe are too close to each other tυ μi υvkJe majdmally reproducible results. An object ot a suitable probe is to have electrodes spaced from each other to obtain optimal penetration of current into tissue containing glucose in its interstitial spaces. It is expected that electrodes spaced sυmewliete between about 0.2 mm and about 2 cm are suitable. Additionally, the uae of a gel can improve skin-probe contact to more reliably pivduce useful measurements, as would be known to a person skilled in the ait. e.g . a gel compnsing mostly water in combination with a thickener such as CelluεLze, giycenn or propylonc glyeol as a moisturizer, and a suitable preservative. /US97/13267 -17- ln one embodiment, a meter la worn in hich a probe to continuously In contact with 1he skin and moisture buildup between ocduβtve electrodes and the βJdn b sufllclant to obtain useful measurement* * -., the device can be mountable on a person's forearm, much like a wristwatch. Such an embodiment might not prove to be useful for all subjects. As previously stated, it might be found to be necessary for a meter to be calibrated Individually, that ia, it might be necessary to detβimme the relationship between ascertained impedance ratios and blood glucoee levels of an Indlvklual and base the operation of the particular mater for that Individual on the retattonβhip. Beoauae blood gluooβe level determlnationa of the present invention are non- iπvai /β and relatively painless it Is possible to make such determinations wtth a greater frequency than with a conventional pin-prick method. In a particularly advantageoua embodiment, blood ςlucosβ levels are monitored quite frequently, say every fifteen or five, or even one minute or lees, and an insulin pump Is Interfaced with the meter to provide continual control of blood glucose In response to variations of Mood glucose levels ascertained by means of tho meter. All references cited above are incorporated herein by reference. The Invention now having been described, including the best mode currently known to the inventor, the claims which define the scope of the protection sought for the invention follow,

Claims: - 1β - CLAIMS . A ntetliυd fυi iiiunilυi my Uie level of glucose in a body fluid of a subject, the method comprising the steps of contacting α oHn surface of the subject with a subetrate capable of absorbing water to permit 5 migration of water between the substrate and the sun * . onitonng the migration of water between the substrate and the skin, and determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the munitυiod amount υf water migration. 2 The method of ciafm 1 wherein the body fluid to interstitial body fluid. 10 3. The method of claim 1 where in body fluid Is blood. 4 The method of claim 1 wherein the skin is contacted with the substrate for a predetermined time penod and monitoring the migration of water includes weighing the substrate subsequent to the contacting step 5 The method of claim 4 wherein the time penod te between about 1 minute and about 2 hours 15 θ The iiieli-υd υf claim 5 wlteiein the time period is between about S minutes and about 1 nour 7 The method of claim 6 wherein the time peπnd te between about 10 minutes and about 45 minutes 8 The method of claim 7 wherein the time penod is between about 2U minutes and about 40 minutes 20 9. The method of claim 0 wherein the time penod is about 30 minutes 10. I he method ot claim 4 wherein the substrate compπses paper I I . The method of claim 10 wherein the substrate hβ3 e contact area with the skin of between about 1 cm 3 and about 9 cπr 12 The method of claim 11 wherein the substrate has a contact area of about A cm 2 25 13 The method of claim 10 wherein the substrate beaib a suffluenlly small amount of water prior to the contacting step such that the migration of watpr is from the skin to the substrate duπng the contacting step 14 The iiiethυd υf claim 1 wherein the monitoring step includes measurtnq elec πcal resistance cf the siibstrprte in contact with the skin surface 30 15 The method of claim 14 wherein the substrate is paper 10. The method of claim 15 wherein the substrate bears a sufficiently small amount of water prior to the contacting step, such that the migration of water K from the skin to the substrate during the monitυnny step 17 The method of claim 14 wherein determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid 35 includes determining the length of time it takeβ the measured resistance to change a fixed dinυuπt 18. The method of claim 17. wherein the substrate is paper which bears a sufficiently small omount of water prior to the contacting step such that tho migration of water is from the skin to the paper during the contacting step and the change in measured resistance is negative. 19. A method for monitoring the level of glucose present in a hndy fluid of a subject, the etho 5 comprising: contact-no a skin surface of ihe subject wtth an aqueous glucose solution of predetermined concentration to permit migration of the water and the glucose between interstitial ekin fluid and Uie solution, monitoring the amount of glucose present in the solution; and 10 determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the monitored amount of glucose in the solution. 20. The method of claim 19 wherein the predetermined concentration of glucose in the solution is sufficiently high that migration of the glucose is from the solution into the interstitial skin fluid. 21. The method of claim 20 wherein the monitoring step includes determining the amount of the 15 glucose in the solution after the oubctratc has been in contact with the skin for o predetermined length of time. 22. The method of claim 21 wherein the predetermined length of time is between about 1 minute and about 2 hours. 23. The method of claim 2ϋ wherein the predetermined length of time is between about 5 20 minutes and about 1 hour. 24. The method υf claim 23 wherein the predetermined length of time is between about IO minutes and about 45 minutes. 25. The method of claim 24 wherein the predetermined length of time is between about 20 minutes and about 40 minutes. 25 26. The method of claim 25 wherein the predetermined length of time is about 30 minutes. 27. The uieihυd υf claim 19 wtieiein Ihe aqueous solution includes a wetting agent. 28. The method of claim 27 wherein the wetting agent includes propylene glycol. 26. The method of claim 20 wherein the concentration of glucose is between about 50 and about 1000 mgs dL prior to me contacting step. 30 30. The method of claim 29 wherein the concentration of glucose is between about 200 and about 700 mgs dL prior to the contacting step. 31. I he method ot claim 30 wherein the concentration of glucose is between about 400 and about 600 mge/dL pπor to the contacting step. 32. The method of claim 31 wherein the concentration of glucose is about 475 mgs dL pπor to 35 the contacting step. 33. The method of claim 19 wherein a semi-permeable membrane is located slween Uie solution and the skin to provide indirect contact ot the skin and solution therethrough during the contacting step. 34. The method of claim 21 wherein the body fluid is blood and determining the amount ot glucose in the blood inciudoc corrolatng the dotorminod concentration of glucoee in the colubon wtth directly determined blood glucose levels. 35. The method of claim 10 wherein the volume of the solution its between about 0 1 ml and 5 about 1 mi. 36. The method ot claim 35 wherein the volume or tne soluson is between about υ. mi and about 0.7 ml. 37. The method of claim 36 wherein the volume of Uie solution is between about 0.3 ml and about 05 ml 1 38. The method of claim 37 wherein the volume of the solution is obout 0.4 ml. 39. The method of claim 19 wherein there is contact area between the skin and solution of between about 0.05 in 2 (0.3 cm 2 ) and ebout A In 2 (2S cm 2 ) 40. The method of claim 39 wherein the contact area β between about 0.2 in 3 (1.3 cm 3 ) and about 1 in 1 (6.5 cm*) 15 41 The method of claim 40 wherein the contact area ic about 0.4 in 2 (2.6 cm 2 ). 42 The method of claim 19 wherein the solution is contained within a hand-held device and the device includes a solution contact area dimensioned for contacting the solution with a wnst of a human subject. 43. A method tor monrtoπno αlucose in a body liuid oτ a subject, the method compnsing: 20 contacting a skin eurfaoe of the subject with a cubctrate substantially free of glucoee co ac to permit migration of glucose between the body fluid and the substrate; monitoring the amount of glucose present in the substrate: and determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the monitored amount of the glucose In the substrate: and wherein. 25 the substrate is free of a glucose transport inhibitor or an exogenous source of energy, or the skin has not een induced tυ sweat. 44 The method of claim 43 wherein the substrate is paper 45. A method for monitoring tho blood glucoee level of a subject, comprising the steps of contacting a sκin surface of tne subject with a substrate bearing a known amount or glucose. 30 so as to permit migration of glucose between the skin and the substrate, monitoring the amount of the glucose in the substrate, and determining the blood glucose level of the subject based upon the monitored amount of glucose in the substrate. 46. The method of claim 45 wherein the substrate is paper. *" t5 47 The method of claim 46 wherein the known amount of glucose is sufficiently high that migration of the glucose is from the substrate and into the skin 48. The method of claim 4b wherein the substrate is a gel. 49. A device for monitoring the level of blood glucose of a subject, the device composing: a substrate bearing a known amount ot glucose, the substrate having the property that the glucose con freely diffuse, when in oontoct with human c in, along a concentration gradient of the glucose between the substrate and skin, the substrate Including, a surface for said contact; and 5 an occlusrve covering. 50. I he device or claim 49. wherein the device is a hand-held device and the contact area rs dimoncionod for caid contact with a wrict of a human cubject. 51. The device of claim 50. wherein said contact surface is provided by a i iteinbi ane permeable To glucose 10 52. The device of claim 51 , wherein said contact area ia between about 0.05 in 2 (0.3 cm 2 ) and about 4 in a (25 cm 11 ). 53. The device of claim 52 wherein the substrate is paper 5 The device of claim 52 wherein the substrate is a water based gel 55. The device of claim 54 wherein the volume of the gel is between about 0 1 l and about 1 15 ml. 56 The device of claim 51 , wherein said membrane is provided with a releasable protective covering. 57. The device of claim 54, wherein the concentration of glucose is between about 50 mgs dL aπ atxtuτ iUϋϋ rnos/dL 20 58. A device for monitoring the level of blood glucoee of a cubjoct, the device comprising a well containing an aqueous glucose solution of predetermined concentration; and a iurfsrft hearing a pressure-sensitive adhesive surrounding an upper portion of the well, to permit mounting of the device on a slon surface of the subject with the solution in contact wtth the skin surface. 25 59. The device of claim 58, further compnsing means for obtaining a eample of the glucoee solution from the well when the device is inυunted on (lie skin ui ' ca 60 The device of claim 59 wh* » r ρ in said m p an--. is a membrane located to be accessible when the device is mounted on the skin surface and such that It may be punctured in order to obtain the sample. 30 61. A method for norv-mvasivβly monitoring glucose in a body fluid of a subject, the method comprising. measuring impedance between two nlβπtrodfi « in onriiirtivβ rontart wtth a skin surface of tho cubject, ond determining the amount of glucose In the body fluid based upon the measured impedance 35 62 The method of claim 61 wherein the body fluid is blood. 63. The method of claim 62 wherein determining the amount of glucose includes υυi i ιμ < _ι π ιy the measured impedance with a predetermined relationship between impedance and blood glucose level. 04. The niethυd of claim 61, 62 υi 63 wherein the subject Is human 65. The method of claim 61. 62 or 63. including measuring impedance at a plurality of frequencies, determining the ratio of one or more pairs of measurements and wherein determining the amount of glucoe* in the body fluid includes umμaiiiiy Uι« dului mined ιalio(s) with corresponding predetermined ratio(s). S 66. Tho method of claim 65 wherein the ckin surface to located on the volar forearm. 67. The method of claim 66 wherein the sWn surface Is treated with a saline solution prior to the measuring step. 66. The method of claim 67 wherein an electrically conductive gel is applied to the skin to enhance tne conductive contact or the electrodes with the skin surrace duπng the measuring 10 etep. 09. The method of claim 61 , 62 or 63, wherein the electrodes are In operative connection with a r/impiitor chip programmed to determine the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the measured impedance. 70. The method of claim 69 wherein an indicator is operatively connected to the computer chip 15 for indication of the determined amount of glucose to the subject. 71. The method of claim 70 wherein the indicator provides a visual display to t e s.ubjβυ 12. I he method ol claim 69 wherein the computer chip is operβtively connected to an insulin pump and the computer chip is further programmed to adjust the amount of insulin flow via the pump to the subject in response to the determined amount of glucose. 20 73 The method of claim 61 , 62 or 63, wherein the electrodes are spaced between about 0.2 mm and about 2 cm from each other. I A. An apparatus tor non-invasive monitoring of glucose in a body fluid of a subject, the apparatus comprising: moans fυi measuring impedance of skin tissue in response to an voliaqe applied tnereto: and 25 Λ microprocessor npαratively connected to the means for meaβuring impedance, for determining the amount of glucose in the body fluid based upon the impedance measurement 75. The apparatus of claim 74, wherein εaid meant for meacuriπg impedance of skin tissue includes, a pair of spaced aμail elecliυdes for electrically conductive contact wtth a skin surface. 30 76. The apparatus of claim 75. wherein said microprocessor is programmed to compare the measured impedance with α predetermined correlation between impedance and blood glucose level. 77. The apparatus of claim 76. including means for measuring impedance at a plurality frequencies of said applied voltage, wherein the piogfaniiiie fuilliei includes means for 3t> determining the ratio ot one or more pairs of the impedance mflasiir p rnftnt*? and means for comparing the determined ratio(o) with corresponding predetermined ratio(3) to determine the aiuυuni υf glucose in Die body fluid. 78. The apparatus of claim 74.75. 76 or 77, further comprising an indicator operatively connected to the microprocessor for indication of the determined amount of glucose. 78 The apparatus of claim 78 wherein the indicator provides a visual display. 80. The apparatus of claim 78 wherein the microproccaoor is operatively connected to an iπoulin pump and includes means to adlust me amount of Insulin flow via the pump to the sub|ect In response to the determined amount of glucoee. β1. The apparatus of claim 75, 7G or 77 wherein the electrodes are spaced between about 0.2 mm and about 2 cm from each other. 82. The apparatuc of claim 78 including a caεe having mβane for mounting the apparatue on the forearm of a human subject with the electrodes in said electrically conductive contact with a skin βurfaco of the subject.

Inventors: ELDEN HARRY RICHARDSON, WICKETT R RANDALL, ELDEN, HARRY, RICHARDSON, WICKETT, R., RANDALL
Applicants: DTR DERMAL THERAPY INC, ELDEN HARRY RICHARDSON, WICKETT R RANDALL, DTR DERMAL THERAPY (BARBADOS) INC., ELDEN, HARRY, RICHARDSON, WICKETT, R., RANDALL
Application year: 1997
Main classification: A61B5
IPC codes: A61B5