Photoluminescent thermometer probes: temperature measurements in microwave fields.

Based on luminescence, the photoluminescent thermometer can in principle function in electromagnetic field coupling and perturbation. Several prototypal probes that have been constructed and tested demonstrate the feasibility of the concept. Temperature resolution of approximately 0.3 degrees C has thus far been achieved. The probes are needle-shaped, sturdy and less than 1 millimeter in size. This thermometer system has excellent potential application in monitoring and controlling tissue temperatures when microwaves are used to induce hyperthermia for cancer treatment.