Apparatus, method and system for determining a physiological condition within a mammal

Abstract

A system, method and apparatus for determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH and / or temperature measurements. In one aspect, the invention is directed to a method of calibrating an apparatus for taking in vivo pH measurements comprising: a) providing a probe having an elongated housing extending along a longitudinal axis, a well formed in a top edge of the elongate housing for holding fluids, a pH sensor located on a floor of the well, the well located at a distal portion of the elongated housing; b) positioning the distal portion of the elongated housing on a base of a removable cap, the removable cap having a lid in an open position; c) supplying a liquid buffered to a known pH to the well and in contact with the pH sensor; d) moving the lid of the removable cap to a closed position so that the distal portion of the elongated housing is enclosed in a cavity of the removable cap, the cavity being substantially free of visible light; and e) calibrating the pH sensor to the known pH.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser. No. 61 / 086,403, filed Aug. 5, 2008, and Ser. No. 61 / 231,076, filed Aug. 4, 2009, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to the field of determining a physiological condition within a mammal, and specifically to apparatus, methods and systems of determining a physiological condition within a mammal based on pH measurements of biological fluids taken either in vivo or externally, such as ovulation, vaginal and / or cervical health, and other physiological conditions.[0003]The device is particularly suited for insertion into the vagina but allows for easy pH measurement of small samples of various other bodily fluids (urine, saliva, blood) external of the body. The device shown is designed for female end user self testing but can also be a valuable aid in physic...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an apparatus, system, and method for measuring various physiological conditions within a mammal using a probe that can be inserted into a body lumen. The probe has a first circuit board with a pH sensor and a temperature sensor, along with a memory device and an interface connector for receiving and processing the sensor signals. The system also includes a handle for manipulating the probe and a microprocessor for processing the sensor signals. The invention can provide a more accurate and reliable method for measuring pH and temperature in a mammal, with minimal calibration required and a replaceable probe. The invention can also be used to predict ovulation and determine fertility status in a female mammal."

Problems solved by technology

BV is caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacterial flora.

Candida is always present in the body in small amounts, however when an imbalance occurs, such as when the normal acidity of the vagina changes or when hormonal balance changes, Candida can multiply.

Some men may temporarily have an irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation.

They generally require the user to subjectively compare color in order to determine the pH value and are subject to inaccuracies.

Inaccuracies can be due to lighting conditions or the ability of the user to accurately compare color.

In addition, another more complicated clinical lab test was preformed by measuring cell cultures of the human Ecto-cervical Epithelial cells and human Endocervical cells.

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