Interstitial fluid sampler

DETAILED DESCRIPTION According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a sampler is disclosed for use in an interstitial fluid collection apparatus where the collection apparatus has a light source for generating a testing light and a light detector for detecting light.
The light source and the detector are contained within the apparatus in a predetermined alignment to define a light path between the source and the detector.
The apparatus further includes an opening of predetermined geometry to define an access to the light path.
The sampler includes a main body having a handle and a sample end.
The sample end has an external mating geometry which mates with the predetermined geometry of the opening of the apparatus.
Therefore, the sample end can be inserted into the opening in a predetermined alignment such that the sampler may be repeatably inserted within the opening in the predetermined alignment with a sample location of the sample end positioned within the light path.
An interstitial fluid collection apparatus is carried on the sampler.
The interstitial fluid collection apparatus includes a needle sized to protrude beyond the housing.
The needle protrudes a distance selected for the needle to penetrate into an interstitial fluid-laden skin layer when the housing is urged against the skin layer by the user.
An absorbent medium is carried on the sampler in fluid flow communication with the needle for interstitial fluid to flow from the needle onto the medium.
The medium is positioned at the sample location.