Infrared imaging and intravascular laser irradiation of blood therapy for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a technical note

TL;DR

This paper describes a new method combining laser therapy and infrared imaging to monitor and potentially improve blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.

Contribution

The novel integration of intravascular laser irradiation with real-time infrared thermography for glycemic monitoring is introduced.

Findings

A 2.1 °C average temperature increase was observed in the hepatic and epigastric areas during treatment.

Fasting glucose and HbA1c levels decreased by 29% and 14%, respectively, with stable C-peptide levels.

The method's feasibility is demonstrated for future controlled studies on diabetes treatment.

Abstract

This technical note presents a standardized method that integrates intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) with infrared thermography to visualize real-time physiological responses during treatment. One adult male with long-standing type 2 diabetes underwent ten ILIB sessions using a 660 nm transcutaneous laser applied over the left radial artery. Infrared thermography captured temperature changes in abdominal regions associated with metabolic function. Across sessions, an average temperature increase of approximately 2.1 °C was observed in the hepatic and epigastric areas. Laboratory values showed reductions in fasting glucose (−29%) and HbA1c (−14%), while C-peptide remained stable. Because this is a single-patient technical demonstration, the findings cannot be interpreted as evidence of efficacy. Instead, the report illustrates the feasibility and potential utility of combining ILIB with thermal imaging for methodological development in future controlled studies.

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