In a recent study published in the journal BMJ Health & Care Informatics , researchers assessed the feasibility of using human facial infrared thermography (IRT) information to predict coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is a leading cause of death with a significant global burden. Accurate CAD assessment is crucial for care and treatment.
Currently, pretest probability tools (PTPs) are used to determine the probability of CAD in suspected patients. Nevertheless, these tools have subjectivity issues, limited generalizability, and modest precision. Although supplementary cardiovascular examinations (coronary artery calcium score and electrocardiography) or complex clinical models integrating additional laboratory markers and risk factors could improve probability estimates, challenges related to time efficiency, procedural complexity, and limited availability exist.
IRT, a non-contact surface temperature detection technology, has been promising for disease assessment. It can identify inflammation and abnormal blood circulation from skin temperature patterns. Studies indicate associations between IRT information and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and related conditions.
Study: Prediction of coronary artery disease based on facial temperature information captured by non-contact infrared thermography . Image Credit: Anita van den Broek / Shutterstock In the present study, researchers evaluated the feasibility of facial IRT temperature data for CAD prediction. Adults underg.
