Neurosonology in Tropical Medicine

Abstract

‘Tropical medicine’ refers to the field of medicine that deals with pathologies, both infectious and non-infectious, that are prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Many of the diseases in this region result from poverty, poor sanitation, infrastructure and inadequate health sources. We analyse the evidence for perturbations in intracranial haemodynamics in five major neurological infections prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions (HIV, tuberculous meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis, neurocysticercosis and cerebral malaria) and examine the role of neurosonology in their management. We then go on to consider existing and potential roles of neurosonology in the management of several non-communicable diseases that are becoming increasingly prevalent in the tropics and difficult to manage in low-resource settings, specifically traumatic brain injury, sickle cell disease and hydrocephalus. Finally, recommendations are made to help ensure effective and responsible implementation of neurosonology for those wishing to adopt it into their own tropical medicine practice.