What indicates a possible drug abuse history during examination of the upper extremities?

What indicates a possible drug abuse history during examination of the upper extremities?

• A. Skin discoloration
• B. Presence of scarring on wrists
• C. Unusual nail grooming
• D. Swollen fingers

Answer: (B)

The presence of scarring on wrists is indicative of a possible drug abuse history due to the common practice of injecting substances in the area. Individuals who engage in intravenous drug use often use their forearms and wrists as injection sites. Over time, this can lead to noticeable scarring, which may appear as track marks or other forms of skin damage, indicating repeated attempts at injection. Scarring can also suggest a history of non-compliance with safe injection techniques, which often results in complications such as infections or abscesses, further leaving marks on the skin. This visible evidence can be a key factor in identifying potential drug abuse when examining a patient. Other options may indicate various health or lifestyle issues, but they are less directly connected to drug use than scarring on the wrists, making the latter a more significant indicator in the context of substance abuse history.

The presence of scarring on wrists is indicative of a possible drug abuse history due to the common practice of injecting substances in the area. Individuals who engage in intravenous drug use often use their forearms and wrists as injection sites. Over time, this can lead to noticeable scarring, which may appear as track marks or other forms of skin damage, indicating repeated attempts at injection.

Scarring can also suggest a history of non-compliance with safe injection techniques, which often results in complications such as infections or abscesses, further leaving marks on the skin. This visible evidence can be a key factor in identifying potential drug abuse when examining a patient.

Other options may indicate various health or lifestyle issues, but they are less directly connected to drug use than scarring on the wrists, making the latter a more significant indicator in the context of substance abuse history.