Thermal imaging today and its relevance to diabetes

Abstract

From the historic and simple assessment of temperature by the clinical thermometer, modern infrared technology has opened up new perspectives, especially in the use of thermal imaging to map body surface temperature with a remote sensing camera. Since the 1960s, there is now a greater understanding of thermal physiology and the relationship between skin temperature and blood perfusion. Furthermore, the examination technique, and the advantages of computer-aided digital imaging has greatly improved the reliability of this technology in medicine. Studies in diabetology have shown the value of this new facility and its relevance to clinical assessment of peripheral perfusion and tissue viability.

Figure 1.

Thermographic examination of hands.

Figure 2.

Standard views for infrared thermography.

Figure 3.

Dorsal view of hand during reactive hyperemia.

Figure 4.

Palmar view of hand showing cold fourth and fifth fingers.

Figure 5.

Dorsal view of feet. The left forefoot is inflamed (red) and toes are cold.