Thermography, also known as digital infrared thermal imaging, is a clinical imaging procedure that detects subtle temperature changes down to a hundredth of a degree. Tissue appearing cooler can represent compression of vascular or nerve supply. Areas appearing warm represent irritated or fast growing tissue.

This non-invasive procedure is an aid for both diagnosis and prognosis in conditions including arthritis, vascular diseases, digestive disorders, pain, nerve damage and disc disease. In the past few years it has become an increasingly popular tool for early detection in breast disease.

Why should a woman use thermography?

To insure that her breast tissue is healthy. Thermography is a future risk indicator, a tool that detects imbalances in the breast tissue long before symptoms appear. If you have pain, swelling or cysts that appear with your cycle, you already have imbalances. Simple lifestyle changes along with routine scans may eliminate future risks.

Is thermography safe?

Thermography is safe, painless and FDA approved. Since the camera detects heat in the body, there is no radiation and no contact with the body. The procedure takes about 10 minutes.

What are the advantages of thermography verses mammography?

Thermography is extremely sensitive in detecting changes in the breast tissue many years before a disease process occurs. Inflammatory breast cancer, the most aggressive form, is affecting much younger women (ages 28-35). These are years before most young women have their first mammogram. Once a mammogram detects this form of cancer it is usually in its final stages. Breast thermography and mammography are complementary procedures; one test does not replace the other.

Who should get breast thermography?

All women can benefit from thermography breast screening. However, it is especially appropriate for younger women (30-50) whose denser tissue makes it more difficult for mammography to be effective in the early stages. It is extremely important for all women who have a family history of cancer to get a baseline scan. If there are abnormalities, a 3 or 6-month follow up scan may be required

Will insurance cover it?

Thermography scans are very affordable ranging from $150-$325. Flex-spending accounts do cover the scans but most insurance does not at this time.

Local Contributor: Dr. Jennifer Dillon, DC

Dr. Jennifer Dillon, DC, owns Dillon Natural Health, which offers chiropractic, clinical nutrition, thermography, kinesiology and acupuncture. She can be reached at 704-333-9991 or [email protected].