Instrumentation for Concurrent, Dynamic Monitoring of Active Sweat Glands and Perspiration Volume

A system for observing the active sweat glands on the thumb, and measuring of perspiration volume is proposed. The system is composed of a microscope with a CCD unit housed inside; stages for finding focused position; a VCR; a CRT; a sweat detecting probe; and a continuous local perspiration volume recorder. The areas covered by the focusing and by the detecting probe are 7 mm2 and 1 cm2, respectively. Maps of the sweat glands are prepared, and their activities are examined by monitoring and by using video tapes. The number of active sweat glands correlates with the amount of sweating; however the activity of sweat glands is found to be asynchronous. Individual glands' sweat secretion are graphed using timing charts. The sweat glands can be divided into three groups, namely, 1) very active, 2) only active under a strong impulse and 3) inactive. The present system may be useful for studying disorders and their therapies.