---
title: What is thermography?
description: "Thermography records infrared radiation emitted from the body surface to map temperature distribution. In ophthalmology it has been explored for assessing ocular surface and periocular blood flow. ## Technique Infrared cameras capture temperature patterns across the face and eyes without…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/diagnostics-testing/what-is-thermography/"
updated: "2025-12-12"
category: "Diagnostics & Testing"
---

# What is thermography?

Thermography records infrared radiation emitted from the body surface to map temperature distribution. In ophthalmology it has been explored for assessing ocular surface and periocular blood flow.

## Technique

Infrared cameras capture temperature patterns across the face and eyes without direct contact. Images may be taken at rest or during specific stimuli, such as blinking or tear evaporation.

- Non-invasive and does not require contrast agents
- Sensitive to small temperature differences
- Requires controlled environmental conditions for reliable results
- Data can be displayed as colour-coded temperature maps

## Potential Applications

Thermography has been investigated in dry eye disease, inflammation, and vascular disorders by identifying abnormal heat patterns. Its use remains largely research-based, with limited routine clinical deployment.

- May help quantify evaporative loss or inflammatory activity
- Could support monitoring of treatment responses
- Standardisation and validation are needed for wider adoption
- Interpretation must consider systemic and environmental influences on temperature