Thermography measures the infrared radiation (heat) which emits from the surface of the body. Areas of abnormality, pathology or disease within the body will be observed as either hot or cold depending on the metabolic activity. An ultra-sensitive thermal camera and a sophisticated computer are used to convert the infrared heat emitting from the surface of the skin into electrical impulses that are visualized in color, known as a thermogram. 

 

The thermogram is then interpreted by a team of medical doctors known as Thermologists who provide a detailed report of the findings. The technology of thermography has been utilized for decades and can aid in the detection of physiological changes. 

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Although thermography is best known for imaging and assessing breast health, it has a wide range of other applications due to its ability to view inflammation. Inflammation is a precursor to many diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Whether looking at the lymphatic or cardiovascular systems or looking at specific areas of concern like the oral cavity or breasts, a thermogram views these as one system, the whole body. The thermographic images seen here depict oral inflammation and the connection to the lymphatic system. 

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The body in a normal healthy state has a high degree of thermal symmetry (even on both sides). An individual’s thermal fingerprint should stay stable over a lifetime, it is only when pathology of some type develops that asymmetrical patterns emerge. When used as a health screening tool thermography can allow the visualization of the most subtle temperature differences. It is the asymmetry seen on a thermogram that assists in identifying suspicious areas and aids in the detection of disease. A baseline will be established when comparing the initial thermography screening to future screenings. It is of the utmost importance that all the recommendations listed in the thermography report are followed closely, especially when to return for comparison screenings.