Helen of Troy Limited
Otoscope and otoscopic method based on spectral analysis

Abstract:

An otoscope device is disclosed comprising a radiation sensing unit configured for detecting radiation reflected by the patient's outer ear, especially by the eardrum. The otoscope device further comprises electronic and/or optic means configured for determining spectral information of reflected radiation, especially with respect to wavelengths shorter than 500 nm to 480 nm, and configured for determining a ratio of radiation in the spectrum below 480 nm to 500 nm to radiation in the spectrum above 480 nm to 500 nm, especially based on a specific intensity of reflected radiation within the spectrum of blue light and/or UV radiation. Further, a method is disclosed for identifying and/or locating objects in a subject's ear or to a method of identifying or characterizing an eardrum. Still further, a method is disclosed for determining the risk of a pathologic state of the eardrum and its vicinity and to provide the user with a risk index for inflammation.