Ernest Drucker emphasises the possible role of unsterile injections in the emergence of Aids (Features, THES , March 15). But even sterile injections can be dangerous. Injections in the buttock should be given in the upper outer quadrant to avoid damage to the sciatic nerve. In the accompanying photo, the needle appears to have been inserted into the path of the sciatic nerve. Consequent muscular paralysis could be confused with poliomyelitis, a fact pointed out by Kehinde in Africa Health (2000; 22:5).
Colin Crawford
Imperial College School of Medicine London