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Injection anthrax

Authoring team

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)

Reference:

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