The Opioid Epidemic: Associated Infections and Diagnostic Methods

The opioid epidemic and the associated increases in intravenous drug use are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Infections have long been associated with illicit drug use and contribute considerably to the high morbidity and mortality. Risky behaviors associated with drug use, including needle sharing and poor injection hygiene, have added to the increasing burden of infections related to drug use. This review addresses the associations between opioid use disorder and infectious organisms, highlighting the important role of laboratory testing for diagnosis and managing these patients.