Thermography
DESCRIPTION
Thermography is a non-invasive imaging technique that is intended to measure temperature distribution of various organs and tissues. The infrared radiation from the tissues reveals temperature variations by producing brightly colored patterns on a liquid crystal display. Interpretation of these color patterns, according to designated anatomic distribution, is thought to aid in diagnosing a vast array of diseases.
Thermography can include various types of telethermographic infrared detectors/imagers. Thermography can also include heat-sensitive cholesteric liquid crystal systems.
POLICY
The use of all forms of thermography for the treatment of any condition is considered investigational.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The scientific literature is inadequate to validate the clinical role of thermography. No published studies were found that demonstrated how the results of thermography could be used to enhance an individual's management and improve health outcomes.
SOURCES
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2005, March). Information statement. Thermography. Retrieved October 24, 2008 from http://www6.aaos.org/news/PDFopen/PDFopen.cfm?page_url=http://www.aaos.org/about/papers/advistmt/1009.asp.
BlueCross BlueShield Association. Medical Policy Reference Manual. (2:2008). Thermography (6.01.12). Retrieved October 24, 2008 from BlueWeb. (11 articles and/or guidelines reviewed)
Completed Guide to Medicare Coverage Issues [Computer software]. (2008, November). Thermography (NDC 220.11, p. 2-181, 2-182). St. Anthony Publishing.
Galvin, E. M., Niehof, S., Medina, H. J., Zijlstra, F. J., vanBommel, J., Klein, J., et al. (2006). Thermographic temperature measurement compared with pinprick and cold sensation in predicting the effectiveness of regional blocks. Anesthesia and Analgesia, 102 (2), 598-604. (Level 3 Evidence - Independent sponsored)
Larbig, M., Burtin, B., Martin, L., Stamm, H., Luettig, B., Hohlfeld, J. M., et al. (2006). Facial thermography is a sensitive tool to determine antihistaminic activity: Comparison of levocetirizine and fexofenadine. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 62 (2), 158-164. (Level 2 Evidence - Industry sponsored)
National Guideline Clearinghouse. (2004). Diagnosis and classification of primary headache disorders. In: Standards of care for headache diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved October 24, 2008 from http://www.guidelines.gov.
U. S. Food and Drug Administration. (2006, March). Center for Devices and Radiological Health. 510(k) Premarket Notification Database. K050239. Retrieved October 24, 2008 from http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/pdf2/k023925.pdf.
ORIGINAL EFFECTIVE DATE: 7/1982
MOST RECENT REVIEW DATE: 12/11/2008
ID_BT
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