Introduction

Tropical Diseases: An Overview of Major Diseases Occurring in the Americas offers an overview of neglected tropical diseases found in the Americas. Information in the book addresses the understanding of challenges faced in controlling these diseases and brings new insight on many important aspects of these diseases. Chapters of this volume explore many related topics, including epidemiological data, immune response and pathogenesis, and the current methods for diagnosis and treatment, thus providing a useful resource for readers (undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. students as well as biologists and medical researchers).

Key features of this book include:

• - clear and objective topic-by-topic information on tropical diseases in the American region with additional information about diseases in other regions
• - useful knowledge for research projects and clinical practice written by experienced health professionals
• - coverage of several diseases such as cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis (Kala-azar), Chagas disease, sleeping sickness, schistosomiasis, dengue fever, bacterial infections, fungal systemic infection and tuberculosis.
• - information on key strategies for disease control including improved diagnostics, in silico drug development and vaccine control