Moiré topography: Characteristics and clinical application

Since 1970, the Moiré phenomenon has been employed as a method of clinical diagnosis in topographical analyses of the human body. The objective of this study was to review the literature on the main characteristics of the Moiré phenomenon and its use as a topographical method for clinical applications, particularly those related to postural deviations. A systematic search for papers written in English between 1966 and 2010 was performed according to pre-established selection criteria and the selected studies underwent a content analysis. The results showed an evolution in the method of Moiré topography (MT), which reflect an increasing effort to improve the accuracy and precision of the method, as well as to facilitate the interpretation of topograms using specific software. The Shadow and Projection Moiré techniques have more frequently been used in comparison with other techniques. On the other hand, the methodological procedures of MT are apparently not well defined in the literature. Although MT was shown to be useful in the detection of spinal deformities, there is still a lack of research in clinical settings, especially in the elderly. For the most part, the studies involve the tracking of scoliosis in school age children. Japan appears to be the most advanced country in terms of the application of MT.