Computer-aided analysis of medical infrared images

Abstract

Thermography is a useful tool for analyzing spinal nerve root irritation, but interpretation of digital infrared images is often qualitative and subjective. A new quantitative, computer-aided method for analyzing thermograms, utilizing the human dermatome map, is presented. Image processing and pattern recognition principles needed to accomplish this goal are discussed. Algorithms for segmentation, boundary detection and interpretation of thermograms are presented. An interactive, user-friendly program to perform this analysis has been developed. Due to the relatively large number of images in an exam, speed and simplicity were emphasized in algorithm development. The results obtained correlate well with clinical data and show promise for aiding the diagnosis of spinal nerve root irritation.