A strip-like microneedle device is provided that includes an array of
hollow microneedles, a diaphragm pump to extract interstitial fluid from
skin, and a sensor that detects the concentration of the fluid. The
microneedle device can be interfaced to an external sensor to produce a
reading, or can be self-contained. One version uses an
attachable/detachable microneedle array as a single-use, disposable unit.
The device is portable, and is used by placing one finger on the
microneedle array, and actuating the diaphragm pump with another finger,
thereby obtaining the fluid sample. Solid coated or transparent
microneedles could instead be used as an in-situ sensor, with either
electrodes or an optical sensor.