Dynamic electrochemistry: a step in the right direction

Variation in hematocrit is a serious but underappreciated interference to accurate point-of-care glucose measurement. Using a meter employing new technology of dynamic electrochemistry, Musholt and colleagues present in vitro data in this issue of Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology demonstrating improved glucose accuracy over a wide range of hematocrits. Although this may have some importance for patients testing in the home environment, the essential application of this new technology will be in the critical care and perioperative environment, where wide swings in hematocrit are common. Because these meters are in use with great frequency in the hospital where accurate glucose measurement is vital, mitigating this interference is a welcome addition to our diagnostic armamentarium.