Globally and within the United Kingdom, there has been an increase in the number of people who inject drugs (PWID). PWID are at increased risk of injection site and systemic infections, which include abscesses, necrotising soft tissue infections, arterial pseudoaneurysms and infective endocarditis. Initial diagnosis and treatment of groin-related complications can be complex and frequently require emergent surgical input while ensuring adequate antimicrobial therapy. The importance of utilising a patient-centred multidisciplinary approach to promote patient engagement, while using each healthcare interaction as an opportunity to mitigate further harm, should not be underestimated. This review will examine acute presentations in PWID and provide a practical approach to diagnosing and managing groin-related complications. It is essential to maintain a high index of suspicion, promptly recognise symptoms, and initiate specific management protocols.
Jackman et al. (Fri,) studied this question.