Using 3D and Thermal Imaging to Measure Arthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Spalding Steven J, Kwoh C Kent, Boudreau Robert, Enama Joseph, Lunich Julie, Huber Daniel, Denes Louis, Hirsch Raphael
Primary Institution: Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can three-dimensional and thermal imaging reliably measure joint shape and temperature in arthritis patients?
Conclusion
3D and thermal imaging provide reliable measures of joint volume, shape, and thermal patterns.
Supporting Evidence
- 3D imaging measures showed excellent reliability with ICCs greater than 0.99.
- Thermal imaging could differentiate between active arthritis and normal controls with a sensitivity of 67% and specificity of 100%.
- Significant changes in joint volume and shape were detected with as little as 0.2 ml of added clay simulating swelling.
Takeaway
Doctors can use special cameras to take pictures of swollen joints to see how bad the arthritis is and if treatments are working.
Methodology
Used a 3D laser scanner and thermal camera to measure joint volume and temperature in patients with arthritis.
Potential Biases
Potential for operator variability in imaging techniques.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and requires further validation.
Participant Demographics
Included pediatric and adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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