TREATMENT OF GLUCOSE-INTOLERANCE IN PREGNANCY - STAGED DIABETES MANAGEMENT

Current methods for the treatment of glucose intolerance first discove red in pregnancy are reviewed and a systematic data-based approach is introduced. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a leading cause of adverse perinatal outcome in 5% of all pregnancies in the United State s. Early detection and initiation of treatment meant to restore euglyc emia will prevent many of the major complications associated with hype rglycemia. Staged Diabetes Management (SDM) is introduced in this pape r as an innovative approach for the detection and treatment of GDM and glucose intolerance in pregnancy. Relying on self-monitored blood glu cose data, SDM guides the primary care physician through increasingly more complex regimens until euglycemia is reached. Computer-based tech nologies assist the clinical decision-making by producing Ambulatory G lucose Profiles (AGP), which are graphic representations of glycemic c ontrol. SDM combined with AGP technology are meant to significantly re duce the threefold greater risk of adverse outcome in pregnancy experi enced by women with GDM.