Tropical medicine

Tropical Medicine

Sir Patrick Manson, a pioneer in tropical medicine

Tropical medicine is a branch of medicine that deals with health issues that occur uniquely, are more widespread, or prove more difficult to control in tropical and subtropical regions. It encompasses a wide range of diseases and conditions, including infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and leprosy.

History

The field of tropical medicine emerged in the 19th century as European colonial powers expanded into tropical regions. Sir Patrick Manson, often referred to as the "father of tropical medicine," was instrumental in establishing the field. He discovered that mosquitoes were the vectors for the transmission of filariasis, which laid the groundwork for the understanding of vector-borne diseases.

Major Diseases

Malaria

Global distribution of malaria

Malaria is one of the most significant diseases studied in tropical medicine. It is caused by Plasmodium parasites, which are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. Malaria is prevalent in many tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms and can develop into severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. It is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and is common in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide.

Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes. Leprosy is endemic in several tropical countries.

Institutions and Research

Entrance to the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is one of the leading institutions in the field of tropical medicine. It was founded in 1899 and has been at the forefront of research and education in tropical diseases.

Related Pages

• Infectious disease
• Vector (epidemiology)
• Public health

References

• Manson, P. (1898). Tropical Diseases: A Manual of the Diseases of Warm Climates. Cassell.
• Cox, F. E. G. (2010). "History of the discovery of the malaria parasites and their vectors." Parasites & Vectors, 3(1), 5.

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  Sir Patrick Manson

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  Entrance of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

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  Global distribution of malaria