injection anthrax
Last reviewed 01/2018
Injection anthrax is a novel form which has recently been recognised.
- acquired through using heroin contaminated with anthrax spores
- users have frequently but not exclusively been injectors
Cases in the UK have presented in a variety of ways:
- severe soft tissue infection, including necrotizing fasciitis and cellulitis/ abscess, particularly if associated with oedema which is often marked. Compartment syndrome has also been noted
- signs of severe sepsis, with or without evidence of soft tissue infection.
- meningitis (especially haemorrhagic meningitis) including clinical and/or CT evidence suggestive of subarachnoid haemorrhage or intracranial bleed
- gastrointestinal symptoms - abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, GI haemorrhage (1)
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