Data-processing method for standardization of thermographic diagnosis

In previous papers, areas of temperature change were analyzed using the average temperature of frames or the differences between different shaped thermograms of the affected side and the normal side. But, by this method, it is impossible to accurately evaluate temperature differences. Therefore, we have developed a method by which thermograms could be converted to a uniform shape. The appropriateness of the program was evaluated using fifty normal subjects and ten patients with lumbar radiculopathy. It was concluded that thermograms could be converted to different shapes accurately, that the conversion method reflected anatomical structure. Also, through differences between two thermograms with a uniform shape, it was possible to show precisely not only areas of temperature change but also the distribution and degree of temperature change in the areas. It can be concluded that this method is useful in studies on thermography and clinical application and that thermography can be standardized by this method.