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A portable system for measuring cutaneous thresholds for warming and cooling.
C J Fowler1, M B Carroll, D Burns
1Reta Lila Weston Institute of Neurological Studies, Middlesex Hospital Medical School, London, UK.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|September 1, 1987
Summary
This study introduces a portable system to measure skin temperature sensation, aiding in the early detection of small fibre neuropathy. The system revealed variations in temperature sensitivity across body sites and with age.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sensory Physiology
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Small fibre neuropathy (SFN) diagnosis relies on sensitive clinical tests.
- Assessing cutaneous thermal perception is crucial for SFN detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel microcomputer-controlled system for measuring cutaneous thermal thresholds.
- To evaluate the system's ability to detect regional variability and age-related changes in thermal sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Development of a portable, microcomputer-controlled system for separate measurement of warming and cooling thresholds.
- Measurement of thermal thresholds at three distinct anatomical sites: cheek, dorsum of the hand, and sole of the foot.
Main Results:
- The system demonstrated sensitivity in detecting regional differences in thermal perception.
- A significant correlation between age and cutaneous thermal thresholds was observed.
- These findings highlight the system's utility in identifying subtle sensory changes.
Conclusions:
- The described system offers a robust and portable method for assessing small fibre neuropathy.
- Regional variability and age-related decline in thermal sensitivity are key factors to consider in neurological assessments.