Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Most surgical conditions in the tropics (regions of the Earth surrounding the equator) are associated with parasitic infesta tions and infections related to poor hygienic conditions. With the ease of international travel, diseases that are common in the tropics may present in areas of the world where the not commonly seen, especially as emergencies. This chapter deals with the conditions that a surgeon might occasionally see when working in an area where such diseases are uncommon. Typically the patient would be a visitor a tropical climate or a local resident who has visited the tropics either on holiday or to work. The life cycles of the parasites will not be described. The principles of surgical treatment are dealt with in the appropriate sections although, for operative details, referral to a relevant textbook is advised.