Have you ever wondered what those images that look like
negative pictures (the ones where the colors are reversed) might be? Well, you
may be looking at images from a technology that measures temperature levels.
Known as infrared thermography, this method was once reserved for industrial and
military applications. Today, however, infrared thermography has many
applications within animal science. In this two-part series, we'll shed some
light on infrared thermography. Then we'll learn about some of its applications
with animals.
What is Infrared Thermography?
Infrared thermography, or thermal imaging, uses what looks
like a video camera to take pictures of an object and produce images that show
variations in temperature. It is often used to promote building and construction
efficiency by finding cracks and improving heating or cooling. Infrared
thermography is also used by firefighters to "see through" smoke and find people.
Camera systems range in cost from $25,000 to $75,000 (USD) or more.
Infrared thermography has many applications within animal
science. These include:
- Problem prevention for zoo animals
- Detection of equine lameness
- Health of cattle
Zoo Animals
The Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Australia uses infrared
thermography to monitor its five elderly elephants. Considering that an
infrared imaging system can be purchased for about the same price as a high-end
ultrasound machine, it's a good investment for such an institution.
The zoo calls infrared thermography "a non invasive
diagnostic screening tool that does not require handling or restraint of an
animal". This technology certainly seems easier than catching, restraining,
sedating, and X-raying (or otherwise evaluating) an elephant to procure a
diagnosis.
The Taronga Western Plains Zoo takes a thermal image of each
elephant every three months as part of a screening program to detect issues
before they become major problems. If something is detected, more invasive
diagnostics (like an endoscopy, for example) can be used.
Infrared thermography isn't just used on protected animals.
It's also used with horses and livestock. To learn more, check out Part 2 of
this series next week!
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermography
http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=490
http://www.taronga.org.au/western-plains-zoo/news/media-releases/zoo-utilises-thermal-imaging-technology.aspx
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Re: Infrared Thermography – Non-Invasive Diagnosis Option for Animals (Part 1)
