Use of Mobile Phones for Thermal Imaging of the Chest to Save Lives of Children With Pneumonia in Nagpur, India

Use of Mobile Phones for Thermal Imaging of the Chest to Save Lives of Children With Pneumonia in Nagpur, India

The purpose of this study is to see if thermal images can be used instead of a chest x-ray to diagnose bacterial pneumonia in children with signs and symptoms of pneumonia in Nagpur, India. More specifically, the objectives of the study are: 1) to determine if thermal imaging, using a commercial thermal camera can accurately detect the presence of bacterial pneumonia in children receiving a chest x-ray to rule out pneumonia; 2) to evaluate the use of thermal imaging to monitor the course and resolution of pneumonia in children diagnosed with pneumonia; and 3) to determine if thermal imaging can accurately diagnose sites of infection that are suspected to be related to the pneumonia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or younger
• patient at DAGA Memorial Hospital, Nagpur, India
• had chest x-ray within last 24 hours
• consent obtained from one parent
• assent obtained if child is 8 years or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• thermal image cannot be done within 24 hours of chest x-ray