Importance

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Abstract

An article and a method for monitoring the concentration of glucose in blood. In one aspect, the invention involves an article comprising a multiple-layer element utilizing reagents capable of reacting with an analyte of interest. In a preferred embodiment, the element comprises: (a) a core layer having two major surfaces, an optical reading chamber extending from a first opening in one of the two major surfaces to a second opening in the other of the two major surfaces, the core layer further having a third opening therein and a flow channel, one end of which flow channel communicates with the third opening and the other end of which flow channel communicates with the optical reading chamber; (b) a base layer in face-to-face contact with one major surface of the core layer; and (c) a cover layer in face-to-face contact with the other major surface of the core layer, the cover layer having an opening therein to vent the element. In another aspect, the invention involves a method comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a sample of biological fluid, e.g., interstitial fluid, from the body of a patient; (b) introducing the sample to an article comprising a multiple-layer element having an optical reading chamber; (c) allowing reagents to react with an analyte of interest in the sample; and (d) measuring the concentration of analyte in the sample by means of an optical instrument.

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First Claim