Developers Create New Thermal Imaging Method to Diagnose Arthritis

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.

Moreover, the device is non-invasive and does not require contact with the skin to record images, so it could be suitable for use in the healthcare or home setting.

How does this method differ from current arthritis tests?

After reviewing the patent, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, an ABIM Quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine and Medical Reviewer for NCOA, tells Healthnews that this method is different because it doesn't use needles, ultrasound, x-rays, or touch.

"Instead, it uses thermal images to see temperature differences between joints right away," Dasgupta explains. "While traditional methods might require more invasive tests or scans, this system can quickly find joint inflammation just by checking temperature changes."

Dasgupta believes this method's primary advantage over current techniques is that it's quicker, more comfortable, and can be done at home or in a clinic.

"However, it's not perfect because changes in temperature don't always mean there's arthritis, which could cause mistakes," Dasgupta says. "The system might also be costly or hard to use, which could limit how many places can use it."

New patent could have significant benefits for patients

Previous 2016 research found that checking the skin temperature over a joint with a derma thermometer could accurately identify whether people with rheumatoid arthritis were at high risk of joint damage and who might benefit from biologic therapies.

The newly patented technique from UAB Diabetis is more comprehensive than a derma thermometer. It uses a two-pronged approach, using computer analysis of both temperature and imaging to detect inflammation.

"This method could help find arthritis earlier, so patients can start treatment sooner and possibly prevent the disease from getting worse," Dasgupta says. "It might also lower the need for costly tests and make it easier for patients to monitor their joint health at home."

Dasgupta believes these benefits could lead to better communication with doctors and improve overall care for patients.

Currently, it's unclear if or when this novel system will be cleared for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, if clinical trials prove it's safe, accurate, and effective — potentially leading to FDA approval — it could simplify diagnosing and monitoring arthritis for physicians and patients alike.