FOREIGN OBJECTS; DRUG HISTORY

Foreign bodies in the colon and rectum are seen particularly among homosexual and bisexual men, having being introduced by the patient or his partner. The patient often presents after attempts to recover the object have failed. Urethral, vaginal or rectal foreign bodies may produce a variety of local symptoms.

Specific questions about prescribed and non-prescribed drag use should be included because:

(i) antibiotics, whether prescribed or not, taken in the recent past to treat
infections or as prophylaxis, may modify the presentation and affect
microbiological tests;

(ii) topical medication containing antibiotic, antiseptic or steroid may
affect the appearance of genital or cutaneous lesions;

(Hi) illicit intravenous drag use may result in infections particularly

hepatitis В and HIV; and (iv) various drags including steroids and recreational drugs (cocaine, marijuana, nitrites etc.) may alter immune function.

Any history of drag allergy should be sought and accurately recorded in a prominent place on the patient’s medical record.

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