Thermographic imaging in the diagnosis of equine sinonasal disease

Thermographic imaging in the diagnosis of equine sinonasal disease

Thermographie in der Diagnostik von Nebenhöhlenerkrankungen beim Pferd

Holzer K, Rijkenhuizen A B M, Simhofer H

DOI: 10.21836/PEM20100208
Jahr: 2010
Volume: 26
Ausgabe: 2
Seiten: 168-172

Twenty horses with sinonasal disease were referred to the reporting clinic. All horses were subjected to a clinical examination, examination of the oral cavity, endoscopic examination of the upper respiratory tract and a radiographic examination. In 9 horses computed tomography of the head was performed. A standardised thermographic examination was performed in all patients. An infrared camera was placed at a distance of approximately 1,5 meters in front and at both sides of the horse’s heads. Surface temperatures in a defined area of interest (AOI) overlying the right and left maxillary sinuses were depicted. Mean temperatures in the AOI s were calculated and temperature differences (T) were compared to the results of the contralateral sides. Correlation of thermographic results with clinical, endoscopic and radiographic findings was calculated statistically. No significant correlation between thermographic and clinical findings or the final diagnosis could be observed. In conclusion the diagnostic value of thermography in horses with sinonasal disease is regarded as limited.