By Kimberly Drake
A recently patented technique using a new thermal imaging camera is a non-invasive and potentially less expensive method to pinpoint inflammation within the joints, a common sign of arthritis.
Arthritis impacts nearly half of all adults 65 and older and is a leading cause of disability in the United States. The condition causes joint damage, inflammation, pain, and stiffness and can progress to the point where joint replacement surgery is needed.
While there are several types of arthritis, some of the most common are osteoarthritis, caused by general wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, which occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the joints. Gout, a condition that causes the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, is also a common cause of arthritis.
Typically, healthcare providers diagnose arthritis by reviewing health status and performing a physical exam. During the exam, the provider looks for signs of inflammation, which can indicate arthritis may be present. Other tests doctors use to confirm the diagnosis include blood tests and imaging scans such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT).
However, traditional diagnostic methods can have disadvantages. For example:
- They may require visiting specific medical facilities such as a lab or radiology department.
- The testing process can take a long time, as healthcare providers must order the tests, and the technicians must read and interpret the results before providers can diagnose the condition.
- Specific tests can be invasive and uncomfortable for some individuals.
- Some testing methods may be expensive, depending on insurance coverage.
Now, a new patented method using a novel thermal imaging device could simplify how doctors diagnose and monitor arthritis. If it becomes available, it could provide distinct advantages over traditional diagnostic methods, as the new technique is non-invasive, could be used at home or in a doctor’s office, and may be less costly.
Identifying arthritis through temperature changes
The patent, held by UAB Diabetis, describes a system, method, and device to measure temperature differences between joints on opposite sides of the body. The patented technique was invented by Gintare Marine, Urte Steikuniene, Jonas Guzaitis, and Rytis Zajanckauskas.
The system uses a thermal imaging camera to simultaneously record a thermogram and standard image of each opposing joint. Then, a computer processes the data and creates a map of temperature differences. The analysis compares these differences to identify areas of inflammation and areas within the joints likely impacted by arthritis.
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