Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in Italy

This paper evaluates the state of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in Italy as of April 2005. We used a questionnaire covering clinical, technical and organisational aspects of CSII. We found that there were 2702 patients on CSII,97% with type 1 diabetes. Of them 20% started CSII before the age of 19, 97% used more than one basal insulin infusion rate, 95% used a rapid-acting insulin analog and 98% used teflon needles. The main goal of CSII was to improve metabolic control. A better metabolic control was perceived as the main advantage by most physicians, while the high cost was considered as an important burden. Fifty-seven per cent of centres started CSII on outpatients. Twenty-four hours assistance was guaranteed in 72% of centres. CSII in Italy is increasing.