Upper Arm Compartment Syndrome Secondary to Intramuscular Cocaine and Heroin Injection

Compartment syndrome threatens the viability of a limb. We present a case of upper arm compartment syndrome secondary to an intramuscular injection of cocaine and heroin. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention avoided extensive muscle necrosis and morbidity. This complication has not been previously reported and highlights a condition which should be considered in intravenous drug abusers presenting with arm pain.

Keywords: Compartment syndrome, Upper arm, Substance abuse, Cocaine, Heroin, Citric acid