Lessons for control of heroin-associated anthrax in Europe from 2009-2010 outbreak case studies, London, UK.

Outbreaks of serious infections associated with heroin use in persons who inject drugs (PWIDs) occur intermittently and require vigilance and rapid reporting of individual cases. Here, we give a firsthand account of the cases in London during an outbreak of heroin-associated anthrax during 2009-2010 in the United Kingdom. This new manifestation of anthrax has resulted in a clinical manifestation distinct from already recognized forms.

Rhinoorbital and pulmonary zygomycosis post pulmonary aspergilloma in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

A patient with an 18-year history of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia developed zygomycosis of the orbit, sinuses and nasal bones together with pulmonary fungal nodes due to Absidia corymbifera while on high dose steroids and four months after successful treatment of pulmonary aspergilloma with liposomal amphotericin B followed by oral voriconazole. He was treated successfully with extensive surgical debridement, intravenous liposomal amphotericin B and intravenous itraconazole.

Sexual transmission of hepatitis B.

Purpose Of Review: Hepatitis B virus infection is prevalent worldwide and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality particularly in Asia. Adults chronically infected with hepatitis B virus remain a significant potential source of sexually transmitted hepatitis B. The purpose of this article is to review the recent literature relating to hepatitis B virus transmission with particular emphasis on sexual transmission and efforts to prevent spread.