Evaluation of methods for measurement of regional skin temperature and heat flow in neonates.

A reliable method for measurement of regional heat loss is a prerequisite for studies of heat loss in the neonate with different clothing and under varying environmental conditions. In the present study we evaluated methods for measuring regional skin temperature and regional dry heat loss in neonates, and specifically the influence of contact sensors applied to the skin surface. A modified incubator with controlled climate conditions was used as the climate chamber. The operative temperature was measured continuously with a black globe thermometer. Skin temperature was recorded with small-mass contact sensors and their influence on skin temperature was verified by simultaneous measurement with an infrared camera. The correlation was 0.99 and 1 SD within 0.3 degree C from the line of identity. The influence of the regional heat flow meter on skin temperature was also checked with an infrared camera and was found to be neglible.