Essential features of a handheld infrared thermometer used to guide the treatment of neuropathic feet.
BACKGROUND
A study was conducted to compare the accuracy, reliability, and essential features of nine commercially available handheld infrared thermometers used to manage the neuropathic foot.


METHODS
The thermometers were compared using two temperature-control sources simulating physiologic conditions found in a foot-care clinic. With each control source independently set, temperature difference ranges of 0 degrees, 2 degrees, 4 degrees, and 6 degrees C were randomly sampled and analyzed for each thermometer by two testers. The order of testing was randomly assigned for testers and instruments.


RESULTS
There were differences in mean temperature change among thermometers (P<.001) and between testers (P=.0247). Differences in mean temperature change among instruments (<0.5 degrees C), although small, could affect interpretation of skin temperature if temperature comparisons are made using two different instruments. The difference in temperature change between testers (0.06 degrees C) was not large enough to affect decisions in clinical practice. Instrument response time, distance-to-spot ratio, sensor diameter, display resolution, emissivity, and cost were compared.


CONCLUSIONS
The low-cost, general-use infrared thermometers used in this study showed good accuracy, reliability, and performance and are appropriate for use in a foot-care clinic.
Foto
James G
JG
National Hansen's Disease Programs, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, USA.
Brasseaux
Denise
D
Birke
James A
JA
D005528:Foot / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008954:Models, Biological; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012881:Skin Temperature; D013817:Thermography / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D013821:Thermometers / Q000592:standards*