Variation of axillary temperature and its correlation with oral temperature.
Unilateral axillary temperature is recorded in unconscious patients and children due to its easy approach.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate variation of axillary temperature on the two sides and its correlation with oral temperature.


METHODS
One hundred and 46 healthy men and women, aged 12 through 52 years.


METHODS
Axillary temperature from both sides and oral temperature were recorded using digital electronic thermometer in supine position with due precautions.


RESULTS
Difference in temperature on the two sides of axilla was found to vary by as much as 0 degree F to 3.4 degrees F. Therefore, the data was grouped into higher and lower temperature ranges. The difference between mean oral and mean higher axillary temperature was found to be 0.5 degree F +/- 0.6 degree F (r = 0.564) while that in comparison to mean lower axillary temperature was 1.0 degree F +/- 0.89 degree F (r = 0.64). The difference between mean oral and mean axillary temperature was 1.0 degree F +/- 0.80 degree F (r = 0.84).


CONCLUSIONS
Based on our observations, it is found that an average of temperature of both sides of axilla represents the axillary temperature more accurately and to get the correct oral equivalent of axillary temperature one should add 1 degree F to the mean axillary temperature.
Singh
V
V
Department of Medicine, SMS Medical College, Jaipur.
Sharma
A
A
Khandelwal
R
R
Kothari
K
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001365:Axilla; D001831:Body Temperature; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009055:Mouth; D012016:Reference Values; D012881:Skin Temperature; D013821:Thermometers / Q000592:standards*