Use of Infrared Thermography in Diagnosing Necrotizing Fasciitis in the Emergency Department: A Case Study

Authors

• Mikkel Brabrand Department of Emergency Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense C
• Jan Dahlin Department of Emergency Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense C
• Marianne Fløjstrup Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Odense University Hospital, Odense C
• Stine Thorhauge Zwisler Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Odense University Hospital, Odense C
• Jens Michelsen Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Odense University Hospital, Odense C
• Louise Gramstrup Nielsen Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital of South West Jutland
• Jens Ahm Sørensen Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense C

mikkel.brabrand@rsyd.dk

Keywords

Abstract

Objective: Necrotizing fasciitis is a difficult diagnosis with a very high mortality. However, thermal imaging has the potential to identify increasing skin temperature and rapid progression.

Materials and methods: We used repeat photographs taken with a thermal camera to visualize changes in skin temperature over time.

Results: An unstable male patient presented at the emergency department. Thermal imaging showed increased skin temperature of his left foot with a rapid increase and progression in extent within 1 hour. Necrotizing fasciitis was suspected and later confirmed.

Conclusions: We believe thermal imaging could be an important adjunct for the diagnosis of suspected necrotizing fasciitis.

References