High Resolution Infrared Thermographic Imaging as a Diagnostic Aid for Acute Undifferentiated Limp in Children.

A variety of different diseases may cause a limp in a child, and in younger children it is particularly challenging to isolate the area affected. Children of this age group are unable to identify a specific region of pain, so clinical examination and parental interpretation is the only method of localising the area of discomfort. Potential problems that may affect children include inflammation, fractures, infection, juvenile arthritis or movement in the growth plate in the hip, among other diseases. Aside from an obvious source of injury, it is challenging for a clinician to distinguish between these different potential causes or the area of the problem without repeated visits, non-specific blood tests and the use of x-ray imaging: a form of radiation that carries with it a small risk of carcinogenic effect. Once a region of the lower limb is identified, an x-ray image of the affected area is often taken; however, it is not possible to image the entire leg, so the importance of the initial examination by a clinician is evident. The aim of this research project is to assess the potential of high resolution infrared (IR) imaging technology in the identification of a focus for the cause of a limping child. The IR camera used for imaging is able to observe an entire limb, so the need to localise an area for imaging would be removed. In addition, if successful, infrared imaging could reduce the number of children exposed to x-ray radiation unnecessarily, whilst stream-lining medical practice by reducing the time to make a diagnosis along with unnecessary visits and tests. The investigators aim to explore whether non-invasive IR thermographic camera imaging assists with the clinical diagnosis in children presenting with an acute limp. This study represents a pilot evaluation as a test of concept.