Body Surface Temperature

Thermographic scan of the patient with clay on his body. (Dorex, Inc. CA)

surface temperature and 3) they are prone to low readings because it is not always evident that the surface thermal connection is adequate.

Heat signatures vary considerably over the surface of the human body, and physicians have long appreciated the relationship be- tween heat and disease. In fact as early as 400 BC, Hippocrates wrote “In whatever part of the body excess of heat or cold is felt, the disease is there to be discovered.”1 Undoubtedly the earliest use of clinical ther- mography, Hippocrates found when he cov- ered his patient’s body with wet clay, the mud dried quicker on the diseased area, thus pre- senting a crude but dramatic demonstration of the heat signatures.

It is impossible to define the surface tem- perature by any single normal value, since it is the result of a thermal balance between energy supplied from the core via perfusion

and energy lost to the environment via radiation, conduction, convec- tion, and evaporation. All objects, whether animate or inanimate, ho- meothermic or poikilothermic, radiate electromagnetic energy (radia- tion) to the surroundings at a rate dependent on its temperature. In accordance with a basic law of physics, this invisible radiation is con- stantly emitted, absorbed, and re-emitted by everything in our surround- ings so that thermal equilibrium can be maintained. A simple example: left in normal room temperature, a cup of hot coffee quickly cools and a glass of iced tea quickly warms to the temperature of the room.

If the human eye had the optical power to see the emitted radiation, which has all the same properties as a beam of light, but differing in wavelength, all mankind would have an incandescent glow. Because the temperature over the surface of the human body changes at a rapid rate in response either to its external environment or to its internal con- trol mechanism, the incandescence would be quite bright over some areas and quite dark over others. This variability of the temperature pattern gives question as to its significance, and yet it is a remarkable indication of the underlying body physiology.

All biological tissue generates energy in proportion to the metabolic ac- tivity occurring within the cells. About 80% of the energy developed by

DT 1001-LN, DT 1001-RS, DT 1001, DT 1001-LT specifications

The Exergen DT 1001 series, consisting of the DT 1001-LN, DT 1001, DT 1001-RS, and DT 1001-LT, represents a cutting-edge advancement in non-invasive infrared thermometry technology. These models are designed for accurate and reliable temperature measurement across various settings, making them invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, educators, and individuals monitoring their own health.

A standout feature of the Exergen DT 1001 series is its precision in measuring core body temperature. Utilizing patented infrared technology, these devices detect the thermal radiation emitted by the temporal artery, thus providing an accurate representation of internal body temperature. This non-invasive method is not only safe but also quick, as it can yield results within seconds, making it ideal for both clinical environments and home use.

The DT 1001 series emphasizes ease of use. Equipped with a simple one-button operation, even individuals without technical training can operate the device effectively. The easy-to-read digital display provides clear temperature readings, which can often be coupled with visual and auditory alerts for fever detection, enhancing user experience.

Further enhancing user convenience is the memory function of the DT 1001 series. These models can store multiple readings, allowing users to track temperature trends over time. This feature is particularly useful in monitoring patients with fevers or chronic health issues where regular temperature checks are necessary.

The DT 1001-LN and DT 1001-LT are distinguished by their lightweight and portable design, making them suitable for on-the-go temperature checks. Conversely, the DT 1001-RS is optimized for clinical settings, featuring enhanced durability and robust performance under frequent usage.

Each model has been rigorously validated to meet clinical standards, ensuring that healthcare practitioners can rely on their accuracy. With their advanced technology, user-friendly design, and versatility, the Exergen DT 1001 series stands out as a leading choice in the realm of non-contact thermometers, promoting effective health monitoring for a wide range of users. Their continued popularity highlights a significant trend in modern healthcare towards efficient, precise, and non-invasive diagnostic tools.