What Is EDI?

Electro-Dermal Imaging (EDI) is a new type of medical scanning system currently under research and development. It works by measuring the natural electrical activity produced by the body on the surface of the skin, generating a map of electrical potential.

The study of the body’s natural electrical activity for medical purposes dates back nearly 200 years. For example, a weak electrical signal within the heart muscle triggers each heartbeat. This signal can be detected on the skin’s surface and displayed as an electrocardiogram (ECG) trace. By studying a patient’s ECG, medical professionals can assess the electrical health of the heart and make informed treatment decisions.

Unlike ECG, which uses fixed electrodes to produce a time-based graph, EDI uses a handheld scanning stylus to detect surface electrical signals and generate a colour-coded map of electrical potential across the scanned area. This information can then be used to interpret the health status of the underlying tissue.

EDI is a passive system that introduces no energy into the body, making it safe for repeated use. This contrasts with active systems like CT, X-rays, Ultrasound, and MRI, which involve energy input and carry usage limitations.

Our investigations suggest EDI may have applications across various medical specialties, though specific uses are still being defined through ongoing research.

Early scans show promising results in breast imaging and suggest EDI may detect changes in the female reproductive system, with potential applications in fertility and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

EDI appears effective across genders and may provide useful insights from other body areas. Indications include wound healing, joint and soft tissue assessment, and potential applications in sports and dance health monitoring.

EDI may also help assess bladder fullness, with potential relevance to continence and other urological conditions. Preliminary findings suggest it could aid in imaging organs such as the kidneys, liver, and digestive tract.