Essential features of a handheld infrared thermometer used tulle the treatment of neuropathic feet

Background: A study was conducted to compare the accuracy, reliability, and essential features of nine commercially available handheld infrared thermometers used to manage the neuropathic foot. Methods: The thermometers were compared using two temperature-control sources simulating physiologic conditions found in a foot-care clinic. With each control source independently set, temperature difference ranges of 0, 2, 4, and 6 C were randomly sampled and analyzed for each thermometer by two testers. The order of testing was randomly assigned for testers and instruments. Results: There were differences in mean temperature change among thermometers (P < .001) and between testers (P =.0247). Differences in mean temperature change among instruments (< 0.5 degrees C), although small, could affect interpretation of skin temperature if temperature comparisons are made using two different instruments. The difference in temperature change between testers (0.06 degrees C) was not large enough to affect decisions in clinical practice. Instrument response time, distance-to-spot ratio, sensor diameter, display resolution, emissivity, and cost were compared. Conclusions: The low-cost, general-use infrared thermometers used in this study showed good accuracy, reliability, and performance and are appropriate for use in a foot-care clinic.