Illicit or 'street' drugs, substances, chemicals and synthetic compounds whether inhaled or i.v. (IVDU) can produce a vast array of respiratory manifestations and complications, that can be life-threatening or fatal (PMID 24144776). These encompass bacterial infections which can involve the lung, pleura, chest wall and heart (PMID 16267325). Links to street names, nicknames of drugs and slang to facilitate history taking are included in a 'News' on right called 'Glossary of drug-related slang/street language'. See also under cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, opiates, narcotics, vehicle, solvents, talc, starch, cellulose and mercury, alc and/or silica may also be an issue. For imaging, see PMID 8416551, 12376606, 17527131, 23168064, 24144776. The homeless is particularly at risk (PMID 30324539). The 'World Drug Report' provides updated data on the prevalent use and consumption of abused drugs. See also under body-packing/packers. See also under 'talc retinopathy'.
