Cardiovascular Images in Neglected Tropical Diseases

Physiopathology of cardiovascular (CV) involvement imaging is a field of cardiology which has evolved exponentially in recent decades, resulting in revolutionary changes in the diagnosis and monitoring of CV disease. There are several imaging options available, such as traditional chest radiography, echocardiograms, nuclear medicine, cardiac tomography (CT), and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). New echocardiography techniques have emerged, such as global longitudinal strain (GLS) or three-dimensional (3D) imaging which allow for better visualization and evaluation of the cardiac chambers. Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomographic Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy (SPECT) has been the traditional study of nuclear medicine, although Positron Emission Tomography (PET) has started to gain popularity. Cardiac imaging techniques can be aid in optimizing diagnosis and care when used properly. In recent years, the concept of a multimodality imaging approach has become widely accepted in the context of numerous pathologies and clinical presentations. Accordingly, each imaging modality has advantages and limitations which are used to guide appropriate implementation (Table 22.1). The Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of conditions which primarily occur in vulnerable populations from low to middle income countries, with limited access to advanced imaging techniques (Burgos et al., 2020). Consequently, cost-effectiveness and accessibility are essential considerations to care. For this reason, the electrocardiogram (ECG) (see Chapter Electrocardiogram in Neglected Tropical Diseases) is crucial. Similarly, chest radiography has independent value. In this chapter the fundamental aspects of multi-image assessment of NTDs with CV involvement are discussed.