Electrochemical Sensor
Definition
A CGM sensor technology that uses a glucose oxidase enzyme coating on a thin filament to generate an electrical current proportional to the glucose concentration in interstitial fluid. The enzyme catalyzes a reaction that produces hydrogen peroxide, which is measured as an electrical signal and converted into a glucose reading. Dexcom and Abbott use electrochemical sensing in all of their CGM product lines.
Why “Electrochemical Sensor” Matters for Glucose Monitoring
Understanding electrochemical sensor is essential for anyone using or evaluating a continuous glucose monitor. This concept directly affects how CGM devices are designed, how glucose data is interpreted, and how clinical decisions about blood sugar management are made. The technical foundations of CGM technology determine the accuracy, reliability, and user experience of every device on the market — from the Dexcom G7 to over-the-counter options like the Abbott Lingo.
This term is particularly relevant to 3 CGM products in our database. Understanding electrochemical sensor helps you compare devices more effectively and choose the right continuous glucose monitor for your specific needs.
Related Terms
A wearable medical device that tracks glucose levels in interstitial fluid 24 hours a day through a tiny sensor inserted just under the skin.
A CGM sensor technology that measures glucose by detecting changes in fluorescent light emitted by a glucose-sensitive chemical compound.
The fluid that surrounds cells in body tissue, where CGM sensors measure glucose concentration.
Mean Absolute Relative Difference, the gold standard metric used to evaluate CGM sensor accuracy.