New Efficient Way for Primary Care Providers to Analyze CGM Data

Using Stepwise Approach to Data Interpretation

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To provide a simple, systematic method for CGM data interpretation, Szmuilowicz and Aleppo created a three-step approach published in the journal of Postgraduate Medicine.¹  

Before diving into the steps, first ensure there are enough data to provide a reliable interpretation. The International Consensus for Time in Range recommends at least 70% of data is captured from two or more weeks of sensor wear.² After sufficient data are confirmed, the following steps are performed. 

Step 1: What is the problem?  

Use CGM metrics: time in range (TIR) 
Identify hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, or both

Step 2: Where is the problem?  

Use Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) 
Locate if patterns exist and times of day

Step 3: How to adjust therapy?  

Use daily glucose data 
Determine the impact of food, medication, physical activity, etc.

Prioritize addressing hypoglycemia first followed by fasting and/or postprandial hyperglycemia. To enable a clear assessment of the impact of a therapeutic change, authors recommend addressing one CGM pattern per visit. 

Watch the video presentation by Dr. Aleppo to learn more about this approach to AGP interpretation.

SIGMA members have access to a downloadable PDF guide to "Stepwise Approach to CGM Data Interpretation" here

^{1. Szmuilowicz E, Aleppo G. Stepwise approach to continuous glucose monitoring interpretation for internists and family physicians. Postgraduate Medicine. 2022 Nov;134(8):743-751.}

^{2. Battelino T, Danne T, Bergenstal RM, et al. Clinical Targets for Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data Interpretation: Recommendations from the International Consensus on Time in Range. Diabetes Care. 2019 Aug;42(8):1593-1603.}

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