Thermography is a noninvasive adjunctive diagnostic technique that allows the examiner to visualize and quantify changes in skin surface temperature. An infrared scanning device is used to convert infrared radiation emitted from the skin surface into electrical impulses that are visualized in color on a monitor. This visual image graphically maps the body temperature and is referred to as a thermogram. The spectrum of colors indicate an increase or decrease in the amount of infrared radiation being emitted from the body surface. Since there is a high degree of thermal symmetry in the normal body, subtle abnormal temperature asymmetry’s can be easily identified.
Thermography’s role in breast cancer and other breast disorders is to help in early detection and monitoring of abnormal physiology and the establishment of risk factors for the development or existence of cancer. Thermography does not entail the use of ionizing radiation, venous access, or other invasive procedures; therefore, the examination poses no harm to the patient.
Breast Only 30 minutes $200
1/2 Body 40 minutes $300
Full Body 50 minutes $435
Preparation for Thermography
3 month prior
No major breast surgery
No chemotherapy or radiation
Stop lactation and breast feeding
1 month prior
No minor breast surgery, i.e. breast biopsy
1 week prior
Avoid tanning or sunburn
Remove casts, bandages, or other factors that inhibit skin exposure to a temperature equilibrium environment
24 hours prior
Avoid exercise, massage, or chiropractic adjustment
Refrain from steam room, sauna, hot or cold packs
Avoid hot tub, hot bathing
Reschedule if you are sick with fever
Day of the image
Do not shave underarms
Avoid the use of deodorants or creams in the area to be imaged
2 Hours prior to image
Refrain from tobacco or coffee
Avoid hot or cold liquids
Refrain from exercise, bathing, showering,
Avoid eating or chewing gum if you are scheduled for head and neck scan
Avoid sitting directly in front of auto air conditioner when driving to appointment