Capillary blood sampling for self-monitoring of blood glucose.

New and emerging capillary blood sampling technologies for self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) are reviewed for their impact on factors pertaining to users such as pain, and from the standpoint of skin physiology and technical feasibility. Innovative blood sampling techniques based on lancets for skin penetration on nonfinger (alternate) sites such as the forearm seem to be virtually painless, convenient and cost effective as compared to other methods such as laser-based perforation of fingertips. Alternate site blood sampling with new lancet devices appears not only medically sound but also technically practical and user-friendly. It is anticipated that alternate site blood sampling techniques would improve compliance rate and, consequently, outcome of treatment for patients with diabetes.