Thermography

The History of Thermography: From Ancient Roots to Modern Medical Application

October 8, 2024

Thermography, the science of detecting and measuring heat variations, has a rich history spanning millennia. From ancient Egyptian physicians to modern medical applications, the journey of thermography is a testament to human ingenuity and the pursuit of better health diagnostics.

Ancient Beginnings

The concept of using heat differentiation for medical diagnosis dates back to ancient times:

1700 BC: An Egyptian papyrus documents the association between temperature and disease.
400 BC: Physicians applied mud to patients’ bodies, observing drying patterns to detect temperature variations.
Hippocrates noted: “In whatever part of the body excess of heat or cold is felt, the disease is there to be discovered.”

Early Temperature Measurement

The quest to quantify heat led to several inventions:

2nd century AD: Hero of Alexandria developed a bulb “thermoscope.”
Late 1500s: Galileo converted Hero’s thermoscope into a crude thermometer.
Subsequent centuries saw the development of mercury thermometers and standardized temperature scales (Fahrenheit and Celsius).

The Infrared Breakthrough

Sir William Herschel’s discovery of infrared radiation in 1800 marked a pivotal moment in thermography’s history. This invisible spectrum of light, emitted by all objects including the human body, became the foundation for modern thermal imaging.

Technological Advancements

The 19th and 20th centuries saw rapid developments:

1835: Invention of a thermo-electrical device confirming higher temperatures in inflamed body regions.
1920s: Infrared photography emerges.
1930s-1950s: Military applications drive improvements in infrared sensors.

Medical Thermography Emerges

Post-war declassification of infrared technology led to its application in clinical medicine:

1960s: Extensive research published; physician organizations dedicated to thermal imaging established.
1972: The Department of Health, Education and Welfare declared thermography “beyond experimental” in several areas, including breast evaluation.
Late 1970s-early 1980s: Standardization efforts and establishment of training centers.
1982: FDA approval for medical thermography.

Modern Thermography

Today, thermography benefits from high-speed, high-resolution imaging coupled with advanced digital technology. It finds applications in various medical fields, including neurology, vascular medicine, and sports medicine, and as a complementary tool in breast health assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is thermography?
A: Thermography is a non-invasive imaging technique that detects and measures heat variations emitted by different objects or body parts.
Q: How does modern thermography differ from ancient methods?
A: Modern thermography uses advanced infrared cameras and digital technology to create detailed heat maps, whereas ancient methods relied on crude observations of temperature differences.
Q: Is thermography safe?
A: Yes, thermography is considered safe as it doesn’t use radiation or require any invasive procedures.
Q: Can thermography replace other diagnostic tools like mammograms?
A: No, thermography is not a replacement for other diagnostic tools. It’s considered a complementary method to be used alongside other imaging techniques.
Q: What are some medical applications of thermography?
A: Thermography is used in various medical fields, including neurology, vascular medicine, sports medicine, and as an adjunctive tool in breast health assessment.
Q: How accurate is thermography?
A: The accuracy of thermography depends on various factors, including the specific application and the skill of the technician and interpreter. It’s generally considered a useful complementary tool rather than a standalone diagnostic method.
Q: Can thermography detect inflammation?
A: Yes, thermography can detect inflammation by identifying areas of increased heat, which is often associated with inflammatory processes.
Q: Is special preparation required for a thermography scan?
A: Typically, patients are advised to avoid certain activities that might affect body temperature before the scan, such as exercise or using skin products.
Q: How long does a thermography scan take?
A: A typical thermography scan is relatively quick, often taking only 15-30 minutes.
Q: Is thermography covered by insurance?
A: Coverage varies by insurance provider and the specific medical application. It’s best to check with your insurance company for details on coverage.

In conclusion, thermography has evolved from ancient observational techniques to a sophisticated, non-invasive imaging method. While it continues to be refined and researched, its ability to detect subtle temperature variations makes it a valuable tool in various medical applications and preventive health strategies.

Sooner Zahn, LCHP

A postgraduate licentiate from The College of Practical Homeopathy in London champions holistic healing and offers alternatives to those seeking solutions beyond conventional medicine.

She practices Homeopathy and Thermography at clinics in Langley, Chilliwack, and New Westminster.