Conhecimentos sobre o manejo de vítimas do acidente botrópico no serviço de emergência / Knowledge about botropic accident victim management in emergency service / Conocimiento sobre el manejo de víctimas de accidentes botópicos en emergencia

Objetivo: identificar o conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem, no manejo do paciente vítima de acidente botrópico no serviço de emergência. Métodos: estudo descritivo, exploratório e com abordagem qualitativa. Desenvolvido em 2019, com profissionais da equipe de enfermagem do setor de emergência adulto de um Hospital Universitário. Utilizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas, transcritas e analisadas por meio de estatística descritiva simples e análise de conteúdo. Resultados: participaram do estudo 34 profissionais da equipe de enfermagem, sendo 82% do sexo feminino, com média de idade de 37 anos. A análise de conteúdo revelou três categorias: conhecimento sobre acidentes por animais peçonhentos, trajetória acadêmica e profissional no contexto de animais peçonhentos e manejo da equipe de enfermagem do paciente vítima de acidente botrópico. Conclusão: os resultados demonstram o conhecimento e condutas da equipe de enfermagem frente ao acidente botrópico e evidenciam a necessidade de sensibilizar a equipe de enfermagem quanto ao reconhecimento do acidente ofídico, especialmente com relação às características apresentadas pelo animal peçonhento e as manifestações clínicas apresentadas pelo paciente. (AU)

Objective: to identify the knowledge of the nursing staff in dealing with bothropic accident victims in the emergency service. Methods: descriptive, exploratory study with a qualitative approach. Developed in 2019, with professionals from the nursing staff of the adult emergency sector of a University Hospital. A semi-structured interview was used, transcribed and analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results: 34 professionals from the nursing team participated in the study, being 82% female, with an average age of 37 years. The content analysis revealed three categories: knowledge about accidents caused by poisonous animals, academic and professional trajectory in the context of poisonous animals and management of the nursing team to the patient victim of bothropic accidents. Conclusão: the results demonstrate the knowledge and behaviors of the nursing staff in face of bothropic accidents and highlight the need to sensitize the nursing staff regarding the recognition of the snakebite accident, especially regarding the characteristics presented by the venomous animal and the clinical manifestations presented by the patient. (AU)

Objetivo: identificar los conocimientos del equipo de enfermería en el manejo del paciente víctima de accidente botópico en el servicio de urgencias. Métodos: estudio descriptivo, exploratorio con abordaje cualitativo. Desarrollado en 2019, con profesionales del personal de enfermería del servicio de urgencias de adultos de un Hospital Universitario. Se utilizó una entrevista semiestructurada, transcrita y analizada mediante estadística descriptiva simple y análisis de contenido. Resultados: participaron en el estudio 34 profesionales del equipo de enfermería, de los cuales el 82% eran mujeres, con una edad promedio de 37 años. El análisis de contenido reveló tres categorías: conocimiento sobre accidentes causados por animales venenosos, trayectoria académica y profesional en el contexto de animales venenosos, y manejo del equipo de enfermería al paciente víctima de accidentes bottrópicos. Conclusión: los resultados demuestran el conocimiento y conducta del equipo de enfermería ante el accidente bottrópico y muestran la necesidad de sensibilizar al personal de enfermería sobre el reconocimiento del accidente de la serpiente, especialmente en lo que respecta a las características que presenta el animal venenoso y las manifestaciones clínicas que presenta el paciente. (AU)

Epidemiología y características clínicas de las mordeduras de serpientes venenosas en el norte de la Amazonía del Ecuador (2017-2021) / Epidemiology and clinical features of venomous snake bites in the Northern Amazon of Ecuador (2017-2021)

Introducción. En Ecuador, las mordeduras de serpientes venenosas son un problema de salud pública. Sin embargo, no existe información hospitalaria reciente desde la Amazonía. Objetivo. Analizar retrospectivamente las características clínico-epidemiológicas de las mordeduras de serpientes en pacientes ingresados en un hospital de la Amazonía del Ecuador. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal en el hospital provincial de Nueva Loja (Sucumbíos), que colinda con Colombia, 2017-2021. La información sobre las variables demográficas, epidemiológicas y clínicas, y la condición al egreso hospitalario, se obtuvieron de la ficha epidemiológica del Ministerio de Salud Pública. Resultados. En cinco años se hospitalizaron 147 pacientes (29,4 por año), sin que se presentaran muertes. Corresponden a 26, 34, 32, 29 y 26 casos, en el 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 y 2021, respectivamente. Según el sexo, los más afectados fueron los hombres (n=99; 67,3 %), según el grupo etario, los de 21 a 30 años (n=28; 19,0 %) y, según la raza, los de etnia mestiza (n=94; 63,9 %), estudiantes y agricultores. La mediana de edad fue de 28 años (rango: 4 a 81). Hubo mayor prevalencia en abril, junio y septiembre. Todos los accidentes fueron causados por serpientes Viperidae. Veinte (13,6 %) casos fueron leves, 90 (61,2 %), moderados, y 37 (25,2 %), graves. La mordedura fue más frecuente en los pies (45 casos). El 53,1 % recibió suero antiofídico antes de la hospitalización y en el 19,8 % de los pacientes se colocó un torniquete. La mediana de tiempo de llegada al hospital fue de 5 horas (rango: 1-192), y lo más frecuente fue entre 2 y 3 horas (41 casos). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas según la gravedad del caso. Conclusiones. Se evidenció una gran prevalencia de mordeduras de serpientes en el norte de la región amazónica-Ecuador, con mayor incidencia en la estación lluviosa y todas causadas por Viperidae. Es importante resaltar la mortalidad nula. Las campañas informativas sobre prevención y primeros auxilios, como la desmotivación del uso de torniquetes, serían fundamentales para reducir los casos, especialmente, en los grupos vulnerables.

Introduction: In Ecuador, poisonous snakebites are a public health problem. However, there is no recent hospital information from the Amazon. Objective: To retrospectively analyse the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of snakebites in patients admitted to a hospital in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Materials and methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted at the Nueva Loja-Sucumbíos Provincial Hospital, bordering Colombia (2017-2021). Demographic, epidemiological and clinical variables, and condition at hospital discharge, were obtained from the epidemiological file of the Ministerio de Salud Pública. Results: In 5 years, 147 patients (29.4 per year) were hospitalized with no mortality. They corresponded to 26, 34, 32, 29 and 26 cases, in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively. Men with 99 (67.3%), aged 21-30 years with 28, mixed race with 94 cases, students, and farmers, were the most affected. The most affected (99; 67.3%) were men, people 21 to 30 years-old (28; 19.0%), mestizos (94; 63.9%), students, and farmers. The median age was 28 (range: 4-81) years. Prevalence was higher in April, June, and September. All accidents were caused by Viperidae snakes. Twenty (13.6%) cases were mild, (61.2%) were moderate and 37 (25.2%) were severe. The feet with 45 were the most bitten. Pre-hospitalization anti-venom serum was received by 53.1% and tourniquet by 19.8% patients. Median hospital arrival time was 5 (range 1-192) hours, mostly between 2-3 hours with 41 cases. No statistically significant differences were found considering the severity. Conclusions: A high prevalence of snakebites was evidenced in the north of the Amazon in Ecuador, with a higher incidence in the rainy season and all by Viperidae species. It is important to highlight the null mortality. Information campaigns on prevention and first aid, such as discouraging the use of tourniquets, especially among vulnerable groups.

Towards better antivenoms: navigating the road to new types of snakebite envenoming therapies

Abstract Snakebite envenoming is a significant global health challenge, and for over a century, traditional plasma-derived antivenoms from hyperimmunized animals have been the primary treatment against this infliction. However, these antivenoms have several inherent limitations, including the risk of causing adverse reactions when administered to patients, batch-to-batch variation, and high production costs. To address these issues and improve treatment outcomes, the development of new types of antivenoms is crucial. During this development, key aspects such as improved clinical efficacy, enhanced safety profiles, and greater affordability should be in focus. To achieve these goals, modern biotechnological methods can be applied to the discovery and development of therapeutic agents that can neutralize medically important toxins from multiple snake species. This review highlights some of these agents, including monoclonal antibodies, nanobodies, and selected small molecules, that can achieve broad toxin neutralization, have favorable safety profiles, and can be produced on a large scale with standardized manufacturing processes. Considering the inherent strengths and limitations related to the pharmacokinetics of these different agents, a combination of them might be beneficial in the development of new types of antivenom products with improved therapeutic properties. While the implementation of new therapies requires time, it is foreseeable that the application of biotechnological advancements represents a promising trajectory toward the development of improved therapies for snakebite envenoming. As research and development continue to advance, these new products could emerge as the mainstay treatment in the future.

Comparing modified Lee and White method against 20-minute whole blood clotting test as bedside coagulation screening test in snake envenomation victims

Abstract Background: Twenty-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) and Modified Lee and White (MLW) method are the most routinely employed bedside tests for detecting coagulopathic snake envenomation. Our study compared the diagnostic utility of MLW and 20WBCT for snakebite victims at a tertiary care hospital in Central Kerala, South India. Methods: This single-center study recruited 267 patients admitted with snake bites. 20WBCT and MLW were performed simultaneously at admission along with the measurement of Prothrombin Time (PT). The diagnostic utility of 20WBCT and MLW was determined by comparing the sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios, and accuracy at admission with an INR value > 1.4. Results: Out of 267 patients, 20 (7.5%) patients had VICC. Amongst those who had venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC), MLW was prolonged for 17 patients, (Sn 85% 95% confidence interval [CI]: 61.1-96.0) whereas 20WBCT was abnormal for 11 patients (Sn 55%, 95% CI: 32.04-76.17). MLW and 20WBCT were falsely positive for the same patient (Sp 99.6%, 95% CI: 97.4-99.9%). Conclusion: MLW is more sensitive than 20WBCT to detect coagulopathy at the bedside amongst snakebite victims. However, further studies are necessary for standardizing bedside coagulation tests in snakebite cases.

Fatal intracranial bleedings in a viper bite: A case report / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Viper bite envenomation represents a significant occupational hazard among agricultural workers in India. The viper bite envenomation is usually suspected when a patient presents with predominant local symptoms at the bitten site, including pain, swelling, and necrosis. Further, systemic findings such as diffuse intravascular coagulation, hypotension, and shock may alert physicians of viper bite envenomation rather than a neurotoxic snake bite. However, cerebral complications are rare in viper bites but may potentially fatal. Central nervous system involvement in a viper bite is either due to neurotoxins or hemorrhagins present in the venom, which may induce cerebral thrombosis, ischemia, infarction, and hemorrhage. Here we present a case of a previously healthy adult male who succumbed to extensive subarachnoid, intracerebral, and intraventricular hemorrhages involving bilateral cerebral hemispheres following viper snake bite envenomation. This report highlights the importance of anticipating cerebral complications in viper bite envenomation, a rare occurrence. It also emphasizes the need for early antisnake venom administration to prevent and control systemic envenomation and its complications.

Completude das notificações dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação: estudo descritivo, Brasil, 2007-2019 / Completeness of notifications of accidents involving venomous animals in the Information System for Notifiable Diseases: a descriptive study, Brazil, 2007-2019 / Completitud de las notificaciones de accidentes por animales ponzoñosos en el Sistema de Información de Agravamientos de Notificación: estudio descriptivo, Brasil, 2007-2019

Objective: to describe the completeness of notifications of accidents involving venomous animals held on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN), in Brazil and its macro-regions, from 2007 to 2019. Methods: we analyzed essential and non-mandatory fields for snakebite, spider bite and scorpion sting notifications, considering the following completeness categories: Excellent (≤ 5.0% incompleteness), Good (5.0% to 10.0%), Regular (10.0% to 20.0%), Poor (20.0% ≤ 50.0%) and Very Poor (> 50.0%). Proportional change in completeness between 2007 and 2019 was estimated. Results: 1,871,462 notifications were investigated. The "localized manifestations", "systemic manifestations", "case classification", "case progression" and "zone of occurrence" fields had excellent or good completeness. Completeness was regular or poor for the "schooling" and "race/color" fields. The "occupation" field was predominantly poorly or very poorly filled in. There was a proportional worsening in completeness ((VP < 0) in most regions for the "zone of occurrence", "case progression" and "schooling" fields. Conclusion: completeness of most fields improved, although socioeconomic and occupational fields require more attention.

Objetivo: describir la completitud de las notificaciones de envenenamiento por serpientes, arañas y escorpiones en el Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración - Sinan, en Brasil y regiones, de 2007 a 2019. Métodos: se analizaron campos esenciales y no obligatorios para las notificaciones de ofidismo, aracneismo y escorpionismo, considerando las categorías de completitud: Excelente (≤ 5,0% de incompletitud), Buena (5,0% a 10,0%), Regular (10,0% a 20,0%), Mala (20,0% ≤ 50,0%) y Muy mala (> 50,0%). Se estimó el cambio proporcional en la completitud entre 2007-2019. Resultados: se investigaron 1.871.462 notificaciones. Los campos "manifestaciones locales y sistémicas", "zona de ocurrencia", "clasificación y evolución de casos" presentaron excelente o buena completitud. "Escolaridad" y "raza/color de piel" regular o mala completitud. "Ocupación" fue predominantemente mala/muy mala completitud. "Zona","evolución" y "escolaridad" mostraron empeoramiento proporcional en la completitud en la mayoría de las regiones ((VP < 0). Conclusión: hay mejoría y completitud en la mayoría de los campos, aunque los campos socioeconómico y ocupacional demandan atención.

Objetivo: descrever a completude das notificações de acidentes causados por animais peçonhentos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, no Brasil e macrorregiões, em 2007-2019. Métodos: analisou-se a completude de campos de preenchimento essenciais e não obrigatórios das notificações de ofidismo, araneísmo e escorpionismo, utilizando-se a classificação de "Excelente" (≤ 5,0% de incompletude), "Bom" (5,0% a 10,0%), "Regular" (10,0% a 20,0%), "Ruim" (20,0% e ≤ 50,0%) e "Muito ruim" (> 50,0%); estimou- -se a variação proporcional (VP) da completude. Resultados: foram investigadas 1.871.462 notificações; os campos "manifestações locais", "sistêmicas", "classificação do caso", "evolução do caso" e "zona de ocorrência" apresentaram completude excelente ou boa; "escolaridade" e "raça/cor da pele", completude regular ou ruim; ocupação, completude ruim ou muito ruim; "zona", "evolução do caso" e "escolaridade" apresentaram piora proporcional na completude, na maioria das regiões ((VP < 0). Conclusão: melhorou a completude na maioria dos campos, exceto socioeconômicos e ocupacionais, que demandam maior atenção.

Mordeduras de ofidios en mano pediátrica y sus complicaciones locales / Snake bites in pediatric hand and their local complications / Mordidas de serpentes de mão pediátricas e suas complicações locais

Introducción: el envenenamiento por mordedura de ofidios es reconocido como un problema de salud pública según la Organización Mundial de la Salud. La baja incidencia sumada a la diversidad de presentaciones clínicas, edades, topografías afectadas, así como los diferentes protocolos en la bibliografía existente sobre algunos aspectos del tratamiento, hacen difícil el manejo sistematizado de estos pacientes. El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una revisión sistemática de la literatura sobre mordedura de serpientes en pacientes pediátricos con afectación en mano y miembro superior, haciendo hincapié en la conducta frente las complicaciones loco-regionales. Por importancia y frecuencia destacamos al síndrome compartimental, las flictenas y las infecciones. Metodología: se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en MedLine/PubMed con las palabras clave: "Snake Bite hand Children" y "Snake Bite compartimental syndrome". Se incluyeron los artículos publicados en los últimos 10 años (2012 al 2022). Resultados: la búsqueda de artículos ante las palabras "Snake Bite hand Children" resultó en 20 articulos y la busqueda ante las palabras "Snake Bite compartimental syndrome" derivó en 34. Luego de aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión se obtuvieron 30 artículos para el análisis. Conclusiones: la población pediátrica se encuentra más expuesta a las mordeduras por serpientes y a su vez a presentar lesiones más severas. El tratamiento del síndrome compartimental continúa siendo un tema de debate. El veneno inoculado puede simular un síndrome compartimental que puede revertir sin fasciotomías con el tratamiento adecuado. Igualmente, ante síntomas y signos claros de síndrome compartimental se sugiere realizar fasciotomías frente a las graves secuelas potenciales. Ante la aparición de flictenas, el destechado cuidadoso de la misma es un tratamiento adecuado. La mayoría de los autores coinciden con el tratamiento profiláctico con antibioticoterapia.

Introduction: Ophidian bite poisoning is recognized as a public health problem by the World Health Organization. The low incidence added to the diversity of clinical presentations, ages, affected topographies, as well as the different protocols in the existing literature on some aspects of treatment, make the systematized management of these patients difficult. The aim of this work is to carry out a systematic review of the literature on snakebite in pediatric patients with hand and upper limb involvement, with emphasis on the management of loco-regional complications. In terms of importance and frequency, we highlight compartment syndrome, phlyctenas and infections. Methodology: a literature search was carried out in MedLine/PubMed with the keywords: "Snake Bite hand Children" and "Snake Bite compartment syndrome". Articles published in the last 10 years (2012 to 2022) were included. Results: the search for articles with the words "Snake Bite hand Children" resulted in 20 articles and the search for the words "Snake Bite compartment syndrome" resulted in 34 articles. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 articles were obtained for the analysis. Conclusions: the pediatric population is more exposed to snake bites and in turn to present more severe lesions. The treatment of compartment syndrome continues to be a subject of debate. Inoculated venom can simulate a compartment syndrome that can be reversed without fasciotomies with proper treatment. Likewise, in the presence of clear symptoms and signs of compartment syndrome, fasciotomies are suggested because of the serious sequelae generated. In the event of the appearance of phlyctenas, careful unroofing of the phlyctenas would be an appropriate treatment. Most authors agree with prophylactic treatment with antibiotic therapy.

Introdução: O envenenamento por mordidas ofídias é reconhecido como um problema de saúde pública pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. A baixa incidência, juntamente com a diversidade de apresentações clínicas, idades, topografias afetadas, bem como os diferentes protocolos da literatura existente sobre alguns aspectos do tratamento, tornam difícil o gerenciamento sistemático desses pacientes. O objetivo deste trabalho é realizar uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre mordida de cobra em pacientes pediátricos com envolvimento de mãos e membros superiores, com ênfase no gerenciamento de complicações loco-regionais. Em termos de importância e freqüência, destacamos a síndrome compartimental, as flectenas e as infecções. Metodologia: foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica no MedLine/PubMed com as palavras-chave: "Snake Bite hand Children" e "Snake Bite compartment syndrome". Os artigos publicados nos últimos 10 anos (2012 a 2022) foram incluídos. Resultados: a busca de artigos usando as palavras "Snake Bite hand Children" resultou em 20 artigos e a busca das palavras "Snake Bite compartment syndrome" resultou em 34 artigos. Após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram obtidos 30 artigos para análise. Conclusões: a população pediátrica está mais exposta às picadas de cobra e, por sua vez, a lesões mais graves. O tratamento da síndrome compartimental continua a ser motivo de debate. O veneno inoculado pode simular uma síndrome de compartimento que pode ser revertida sem fasciotomias com tratamento apropriado. Da mesma forma, se houver sinais e sintomas claros de síndrome compartimental, são sugeridas fasciotomias por causa das severas seqüelas. Se as flectenas aparecerem, o desenrolamento cuidadoso das flectenas seria um tratamento apropriado. A maioria dos autores concorda com o tratamento profilático com a antibioticoterapia.

Boletim informativo de toxicologia: acidentes ofídicos / Toxicology Fact Sheet: Snakebites

Os acidentes por animais peçonhentos, especialmente os acidentes ofídicos, foram incluídos pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) na lista das doenças tropicais negligenciadas que acometem, na maioria das vezes, populações pobres que vivem em áreas rurais, devido à gravidade constituem um problema de saúde pública. O sucesso no tratamento do paciente para que os mesmos não gerem sequelas graves, podendo chegar ao óbito, requer atendimento de forma rápida, com o uso adequado do soro específico quando necessário para cada espécie de serpentes e na quantidade recomendada. Em Goiás as principais serpentes que causam acidente são dos gêneros: Bothrops (jararacas), Crotalus (cascavéis) e Micrurus (coral), são considerados acidentes graves que demandam o uso de soros antivenenos específicos

Accidents by venomous animals, especially snakebites, were included by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the list of neglected tropical diseases that affect, most of the time, poor people living in rural areas, due to the seriousness of a public health problem. . Successful treatment of the patient so that they do not generate serious sequelae, which can lead to death, requires quick care, with the appropriate use of specific serum when necessary for each species of snakes and in the recommended amount. In Goiás, the main snakes that cause accidents are of the genera: Bothrops (jararacas), Crotalus (rattlesnakes) and Micrurus (coral), are considered serious accidents that require the use of specific antivenom serums

Accidente ofídico como problema de salud pública serpientes en la ciudad / Ophidian accident as a public health problem snakes in the city

En todo el planeta ocurren mordeduras por serpiente tanto en humanos, como animales; sin embargo, muchos pueblos carecen de recursos para prestar atención sanitaria, administrar suero antiofídico o mantener seguimiento desde lo multidisciplinario al paciente que quedó con secuelas. Objetivo: Establecer alertas tempranas sobre migración o emigración de serpientes hacia la ciudad, respecto al accidente ofídico como problema de salud pública. Materiales y métodos: La investigación es monográfica de tipo documental y muestra pertinencia social. Resultados: Es indispensable abordar tempranamente a la víctima, así como, registrar causas coadyuvantes o desencadenantes del accidente, ya que, dejó de ser exclusivamente rural y se registra en zonas urbanizadas e incluso en la ciudad. El alcance y magnitud de la investigación, sobrepasa lo académico de fortalecer áreas de conocimiento en carreras científicas del pregrado y trasciende a carreras relacionadas, afines y de postgrado, relacionadas indirectamente al problema. Conclusión: Garantizar seguridad del humano y su entorno requiere disposición para la prevención; no obstante, la migración o emigración de ésta biodiversidad revela un problema socio-ambiental, dependiente de entender la gestión académica y alertas tempranas que anuncian que, las serpientes han llegado a la ciudad(AU)

All over the planet snake bites occur in both humans and animals; however, many towns lack the resources to provide health care, administer antivenom serum or maintain multidisciplinary follow-up of the patient with sequelae. Objective: To establish early alerts on the migration or emigration of snakes to the city, regarding the ophidian accident as a public health problem. Materials and methods: The research is monographic documentary type and shows social relevance. Results: It is essential to address the victim early, as well as to record contributing causes or triggers of the accident, since it is no longer exclusively rural and is recorded in urbanized areas and even in the city. The scope and magnitude of the research goes beyond the academic of strengthening areas of knowledge in undergraduate scientific careers and transcends related, related and postgraduate careers, indirectly related to the problem. Conclusion: Ensuring the safety of humans and their environment requires provision for prevention; however, the migration or emigration of this biodiversity reveals a socio-environmental problem, dependent on understanding the academic management and early warnings that announce that the snakes have arrived in the city(AU)

Acidentes com animais peçonhentos no Brasil: uma revisão integrativa / Accidents with venomous animals in Brazil: an integrative review

Considerados como doenças negligenciadas pela Organização Mundial de Saúde, os acidentes com animais peçonhentos são de grande relevância média por apresentarem altos índices de mortalidade e morbidade. Objetivo - O objetivo desta revisão é apresentar os aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos dos acidentes com animais peçonhentos no Brasil nos últimos dez anos. Métodos - Foram utilizadas publicações que compreendessem os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos de estados, regiões ou municípios brasileiros. Para a revisão foram os artigos foram selecionados em maio de 2020, compreendendo os anos de 2010 a 2020. Resultados e Discussão - Os principais acidentes foram relacionados às serpentes peçonhentas e escorpiões. Nas regiões Sudeste, Norte, Centro-Oeste os acidentes ofídicos foram os mais recorrentes, enquanto que, na região Nordeste, os acidentes com escorpiões e um estudo da região Sul um estudo destacou o araneísmo como principal acidente. Os sinais e sintomas do ofidismo variaram de acordo com o gênero das serpentes, sendo os acidentes com o gênero Bothrops predominante. Os sintomas recorrentes foram: dor, edema, equimose, hemorragia local e sistêmica e alterações na coagulação. O escorpionismo foi causado principalmente pelo gênero Tityus, sendo os casos graves relacionados ao comprometimento pulmonar. Conclusão - Os tipos de acidentes, bem como os sinais e sintomas do envenenamento apresentam muitas variáveis, como região geográfica, gênero e espécie dos animais. A melhoria da qualidade dos dados epidemiológicos e ampliação da assistência em saúde são fatores essenciais para a redução no número de casos de mortalidade e morbidades decorrentes do envenenamento por animais peçonhentos.

Considered as neglected by the World Health Organization, accidents with venomous animals are of great relevance because they have high mortality and morbidity rates. Purpose - This review has the purpose to present the epidemiological and clinical aspects of accidents with venomous animals in Brazil in the past ten years. Methods - Publications were used that understood the clinical and epidemiological aspects of Brazilian states, regions or municipalities. For the review, articles were selected in May 2020, covering the years 2010 to 2020. Results and Discussion - The main accidents were related to venomous snakes and scorpions. In the Southeast, North, and Center-West regions, snakebite accidents were the most recurrent, while in the Northeast region, accidents involving scorpions and a study in the Southern region highlighted accidents with arachnids as the most frequent type of incident. Signs and symptoms of snakebite varied according to the gender of the snakes, with predominance for accidents with the Bothrops genus. Recurring symptoms included pain, edema, ecchymosis, local and systemic hemorrhage, and changes in coagulation. Scorpionism was mainly caused by the Tityus genus, with severe cases presenting pulmonary involvement. Conclusion - The types of accidents, as well as the signs and symptoms of envenomation, present many variables which included geographic region, gender and species of animals. Improving the quality of epidemiological data and expanding health care are essential factors for reducing the number of mortality and morbidity cases resulting from envenomation by venomous animals.

Massive acute ischemic stroke after Bothrops spp. envenomation in southwestern Colombia: Case report and literature review / Accidente cerebrovascular isquémico agudo masivo por veneno de Bothrops spp. en el suroccidente de Colombia: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura

Bothrops spp. envenomation and its relationship with ischemic stroke has complex pathogenesis. Local effects such as edema, pain, redness, necrosis, and systemic manifestations like coagulation disorders, thrombosis, renal failure, and hemorrhage have been reported. Hemorrhagic stroke is a common neurological complication but ischemic stroke is poorly understood. We present here the case of a 50-year-old male with no comorbidities referred from a rural area in southwest Colombia with a Bothrops spp. snakebite on the left hand. On admission, the patient presented with a deterioration of consciousness and required mechanical ventilation assistance. The MRI showed multiple ischemic areas in the bilateral frontal- temporal and occipital regions. Two months later, the patient had a favorable resolution, although central paresis in the III and VI cranial nerves and positive Babinski's sign persisted. As already mentioned, the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke due to snakebite is complex but the procoagulant activity of the venom components, the hypovolemic shock, the endothelial damage, and the thromboinflammation can explain it, and although it rarely occurs, it should be considered as a complication of ophidian accidents caused by Bothrops spp.

La mordedura de serpientes Bothrops spp. y el ataque cerebrovascular isquémico tienen una patogenia compleja. Se reconocen efectos locales como edema, dolor, enrojecimiento y necrosis, así como manifestaciones sistémicas como trastornos de la coagulación, trombosis, insuficiencia renal y hemorragia, por lo que el accidente cerebrovascular hemorrágico es una complicación neurológica común, pero, en cambio, el accidente cerebrovascular isquémico es poco conocido. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 50 años, sin comorbilidades, remitido de una zona rural del suroccidente de Colombia debido a la mordedura de una serpiente Bothrops spp. en su mano izquierda. En el momento del ingreso, el paciente presentaba deterioro de la conciencia y requirió asistencia respiratoria mecánica. Mediante resonancia magnética, se observaron múltiples áreas isquémicas bilaterales en la región fronto-temporal y en la occipital. Dos meses después, el paciente había evolucionado favorablemente, pero persistían la paresia en los pares craneales III y VI y el signo de Babinski. La fisiopatología del accidente cerebrovascular isquémico por mordedura de serpiente es compleja. La actividad procoagulante de los componentes del veneno, el choque hipovolémico, el daño endotelial y la tromboinflamación pueden explicar el accidente cerebrovascular isquémico que, aunque raro, debe considerarse como una complicación del accidente ofídico causado por serpientes Bothrops spp.

Venomous animals in Pernambuco: children at risk / Animais peçonhentos em Pernambuco: crianças em risco

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the epidemiological and clinical aspects of accidents caused by venomous animals in children under 15 years old. Methods: a cross-sectional study with an analytical component using secondary data from Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica de Pernambuco (CIATox-PE), (Poison Center in Pernambuco)), in 2017 to 2019. Notifications of accidents caused were included in the studied age group and evaluated the characteristics of poisoning (animal classification, exposure zone, place and time of the occurrence and specific use of serum therapy), and of the patient (sociodemographic variables, clinical condition and evolution). The analysis performed in STATA® 13.1 presents frequency distribution tables and Pearson's chi-square for comparison. Results: of the 2678 notifications, 82,8% were scorpionism and 10, 8% snakebite. The age group of1 to 9 years old (70.5%) and being male (54.1%) were predominant. Most of the cases occurred in urban area (80.9%), in Recife (67.3%), inside the victim's residence (83.9%) and at night (47.3%). The majority (87.1%) were classified as 'mild severity', 10% received antivenom therapy and one died (by scorpionism). Two cases of snakebite in the workplace were registered. Conclusion: there was a high frequency of accidents caused in the urban area, which may be related to the lack of urban planning and sanitary education. The accidents caused among children in the household environment and the suspicion of child labor in the age group of 10 to 14 years old were also highlighted which favors the development and habits of the venomous animal.

Resumo Objetivos: analisar aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos em menores de 15 anos. Métodos: estudo transversal com componente analítico utilizando dados secundários do Centro de Informação e Assistência Toxicológica de Pernambuco (CIATox-PE), no período de 2017 a 2019. Foram incluídas as notificações dos acidentes na faixa etária estudada e avaliadas características do envenenamento (classe do animal, zona de exposição, local/turno da ocorrência e uso soroterapia específica) e do paciente (variáveis sociodemográficas, gravidade clínica e evolução). A análise realizada no STATA® 13.1 apresenta tabelas de distribuição de frequência e qui-quadrado de Pearson para comparação. Resultados: das 2678 notificações, 82,8% foram de escorpionismo e 10,8% de ofidismo. Predominaram na faixa etária de 1a 9 anos (70,5%) e sexo masculino (54,1%);ocorreram principalmente na zona urbana (80,9%),no Recife(67,3%), na residência da vítima (83,9%), durante horário noturno (47,3%). A maioria (87,1%) foi classificada como de gravidade leve, 10% receberam soroterapia e ocorreu um óbito (escorpionismo). Registraram-se dois casos de ofidismo em ambiente de trabalho. Conclusão: ressaltam-se os acidentes intradomiciliares entre crianças e a suspeita de trabalho infantil na faixa etária de 10 a 14anos.Os acidentes ocorreram sobretudo na zona urbana provavelmente associado à falta de planejamento e educação sanitária que favorece o desenvolvimento e hábitos do animal peçonhento.

Tendência temporal e perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos no Brasil, 2007-2019 / Tendencia temporal y perfil epidemiológico de los accidentes por animales venenosos en Brasil, 2007-2019 / Temporal trend and epidemiological profile of accidents involving venomous animals in Brazil, 2007-2019

Objetivo: Analisar a tendência temporal dos acidentes causados por animais peçonhentos no Brasil, de 2007 a 2019. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado com dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Sinan). Para a análise temporal, utilizou-se a regressão linear de Prais-Winsten. Foram calculadas as incidências por sexo e faixa etária, risco relativo e letalidade. Resultados: No período de estudo, houve 2.102.657 casos de acidentes por animais peçonhentos. Com exceção do ofidismo, os demais acidentes apresentaram tendência temporal crescente na maioria das macrorregiões nacionais. Escorpionismo, ofidismo e araneísmo foram responsáveis por 86% dos acidentes, principalmente entre pessoas do sexo masculino em idade economicamente ativa. A de letalidade foi mais elevada para acidentes ofídicos (0,4%) e apílicos (0,3%). As crianças foram as principais vítimas de acidentes com abelhas, lagartas e "outros". Conclusão: Os acidentes com animais peçonhentos apresentaram tendência temporal crescente para a maioria dos agravos e diferentes perfis epidemiológicos.

Objetivo: Analizar la tendencia temporal de los accidentes con animales ponzoñosos en Brasil de 2007 a 2019. Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado con datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Declaración Obligatoria (Sinan). Para el análisis temporal se utilizó la Regresión Lineal de Prais-Wisten. Se calcularon las incidencias por sexo y grupo de edad, riesgo relativo y letalidad. Resultados: Durante el período del estudio hubo 2.102.657 casos de accidentes con animales ponzoñosos. Con excepción de la mordedura de serpiente, los demás accidentes mostraron una tendencia temporal creciente en la mayoría de las regiones del país. El escorpionismo, la mordedura de serpiente y la picadura de araña fueron responsables del 86% de los accidentes, afectando principalmente a personas del sexo masculino en edad laboral. Las tasas de letalidad más altas fueron por accidentes de mordedura de serpiente (0,4%) y picadura de araña (0,3%). Los niños fueron las principales vitimas de los acidentes con abejas, lagartas y "otros". Conclusión: Los accidentes com animales ponzoñosos mostraron una tendencia temporal creciente para la mayoría de las enfermedades y diferentes perfiles epidemiológicos.

Objective: to analyze the temporal trend of accidents involving venomous animals in Brazil from 2007 to 2019. Methods: this was a cross-sectional study carried out with data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN). Prais-Winsten linear regression was used for the temporal analysis. We calculated incidence rates according to sex and age group, relative risk and case fatality ratio. Results: during the study period there were 2,102,657 cases of accidents involving venomous animals. With the exception of snakebite, the remaining accidents showed a rising temporal trend in most regions of the country. Scorpion stings, snake bites and spider bites were responsible for 86% of accidents, mainly affecting male people of working age. Accidents involving snakes (0.4%) and bees (0.3%) had the highest case fatality ratios. Children were the main victims of accidents involving bees, caterpillars and "others". Conclusion: accidents involving venomous animals showed a rising temporal trend for most conditions, as well as different epidemiological profiles.

Acidentes crotálicos no Brasil: atualidades e perspectivas / Crotalic accidents in Brazil: actualities and perspectives

Introdução: Os acidentes ofídicos são eventos negligenciados em países tropicais e em desenvolvimento, incluindo o Brasil. Serpentes do gênero Crotalus são aquelas que produzem os quadros de maior letalidade no país. Objetivos: Abordar os principais aspectos do acidente por Crotalus, com ênfase na biologia das serpentes, na condução clínica dos eventos mórbidos e nas propriedades terapêuticas da peçonha destes animais. Métodos: Revisão da literatura com estratégia de busca definida, a partir da utilização das bases PubMed, LILACS e SciELO. Resultados: A inoculação da peçonha crotálica produz sinais locais discretos, mas repercussões sistêmicas podem ocorrer, especialmente alterações neurológicas e insuficiência renal aguda. A avaliação laboratorial é importante para auxiliar na distinção de outros acidentes ofídicos e para estimar a gravidade do quadro. O soro anticrotálico precisa ser administrado o mais brevemente possível, a partir da estimativa da quantidade de peçonha inoculada. A maior parte dos agravos ocorre no período chuvoso, acometendo principalmente homens jovens que trabalham na zona rural. A adoção de medidas de proteção e a educação em saúde são estratégias pertinentes para a prevenção e a redução do número de casos. As peçonhas de Crotalus possuem ações antimicrobianas, antiagregantes plaquetárias e aplicabilidade em oftalmologia (estrabismo). Conclusão: O conhecimento dos diferentes aspectos dos acidentes crotálicos é essencial para a adequada abordagem diagnóstica e terapêutica de tais condições mórbidas. As propriedades farmacológicas de componentes da peçonha crotálica deverão ser melhor investigadas nos próximos anos, dadas as possibilidades de utilização para o tratamento de diferentes enfermidades humanas

Introduction: Ophidian accidents are neglected events in tropical and in developing countries, including Brazil. Serpents of the Crotalus genus (rattlesnakes) are those that produce the highest case-fatality in the country. Purpose: to address the main aspects of the accident caused by Crotalus, with emphasis on the snakes biology, the clinical approach to snake bites and the therapeutic properties of the venom of these animals. Methods: literature review with a defined search strategy, using the PubMed, LILACS and SciELO databases. Results: Inoculation of crotalic venom produces discrete local signs, but systemic repercussions can occur, especially neurological alterations and acute renal failure. Laboratory evaluation is important to help distinguish from other ophidian accidents and to estimate the severity of the condition. Anticrotalic serum must be administered as soon as possible, based on the estimated amount of inoculated venom. Most of the morbid events occur in the rainy season (higher temperature), mainly affecting young men who work in rural areas. The adoption of protective measures and health education, aimed at the population most commonly involved, are relevant strategies for preventing and reducing the number of cases. In addition, crotalic venoms have antimicrobial actions, antiplatelets functions and ophthalmological applicability (strabismus). Conclusion: Knowledge of the different aspects of crotalic injuries is essential for an adequate diagnostic and therapeutic approach to such morbid conditions. The pharmacological properties of crotalic venom components should be better investigated in the next few years, given the possibilities of their use for the treatment of different human diseases.

Neutralization of toxic activities of Bothrops asper snake venom by ethnomedicinal plants used in Central America, with emphasis in Guatemala: a review / Neutralización de actividades tóxicas del veneno de la serpiente Bothrops asper por plantas etnomedicinales utilizadas en Centroamérica, con énfasis en Guatemala: Revisión

There are few scientific studies that explore the use of medicinal plants for snakebite envenoming in Central America, although plant-based therapies have been traditionally used in the region. This work reviews the studies conducted in Central America to assess the ability of extracts obtained from plants of local ethnomedical use to inhibit toxic activities of the venom of Bothrops asper, the snake responsible for approximately half of the snakebite envenomings in these countries. The search prioritized the description of the plants used in Guatemala, since most of the studies described in this work were conducted in that country, although references to other countries are included. Information concerning secondary metabolites and other pharmacological activities of these plant species, relevant to the treatment of snakebites, was also described. The literature search was conducted in the Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus databases and completed with locally available literature. It was found that extracts of 12 plant species inhibited the hemorrhagic effect of the venom and three neutralized the edema-forming activity, while inhibition of proteolytic and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activities was achieved by three and one plant species, respectively. Only Brownea rosa-de-monte was able to effectively counteract the in vitro coagulant effect of the venom. Some plant extracts screened in Guatemala demonstrated procoagulant or anti-thrombin intrinsic effects that might aggravate the coagulopathy induced by the venom. These findings underscore the need of carrying out scientific studies aimed to validate the inhibitory potential of Central American plant extracts and their metabolites against B. asper venom.

Pocos estudios científicos han explorado el uso de plantas medicinales para el tratamiento del envenenamiento ofídico en Centroamérica, a pesar de que las terapias basadas en plantas son de uso tradicional en la región. Este trabajo recopiló información sobre los estudios realizados en Centroamérica para evaluar la capacidad de extractos de plantas de uso etno-médico para inhibir las actividades tóxicas del veneno de Bothrops asper, la serpiente responsable de aproximadamente la mitad de los envenenamientos ofídicos en Centroamérica. La búsqueda priorizó la descripción de plantas utilizadas en Gua-temala, ya que la mayoría de los estudios aquí descritos fueron realizados en ese país. También se incluyó la descripción de los metabolitos secundarios y otras actividades farmacológicas de las especies evaluadas, que podrían explicar su uso como antiofídicos. La búsqueda de literatura se realizó en las bases de datos de Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, y se completó con literatura disponible localmente. Se determinó que 12 extractos de plantas inhibieron el efecto hemorrágico del veneno y tres el efecto edematígeno; la actividad proteolítica fue inhibida por extractos de tres especies y la fosfolipasa A2 (PLA2) por una especie. Solamente Brownea rosa-de-monte demostró inhibir efectivamente el efecto coagulante del veneno in vitro. Algunos extractos de las plantas tamizadas en Guatemala demostraron efectos procoagulantes o anti-trombina intrínsecos, que podrían agravar las alteraciones inducidas por el veneno en la coagulación. Estos hallazgos enfatizan la necesidad de validar el potencial de extractos de plantas centroamericanas y sus metabolitos secundarios para neutralizar el veneno de B. asper.

Anti-Snake Venom Properties of Medicinal Plants: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Literature

Abstract Snakebite is one of the major health issues posing considerable morbidity and mortality. According to an estimate of World Health Organization (WHO) (World health organization, 2021) approximately 5 million people are bitten by several species of snakes resulting in up to 2.5 million envenomation cases annually. The mainstay of treatment for envenomation is intravenous administration of anti-snake venom. Although antivenom neutralizes the systemic effects but it does not relieve the symptoms such as venom-induced hemorrhage, necrosis and nephrotoxicity. Moreover, the use of antivenoms is associated with hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria, anaphylaxis, or serum sickness due to their heterologous property. Furthermore, stringent storage conditions and narrow specificity of antivenoms limit their use in both developed as well as developing countries. In this context, researchers have been searching for natural products and plant extracts to explore their antivenom activity along with anti-myotoxic, anti-hemorrhagic and anti-inflammatory properties. Plant remedies may prove to be an effective alternate for antivenom sera with less adverse events and better tolerability. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review of medicinal plants possessing anti-snake venom activities against certain species of snakes. The current review highlights the investigated plants with their phytochemical analysis to integrate the available information for future research and development of antivenom sera.

Primer registro de accidentes ofídicos por mordedura de Micrurus ortoni y Micrurus hemprichii (Serpentes: Elapidae) en Colombia y Perú / First record of snakebites by Micrurus ortoni and Micrurus hemprichii (Serpentes: Elapidae) in Colombia and Perú

Resumen | Se reportan dos casos de mordedura por serpientes de la especie Micrurus ortoni en Colombia y uno por M. hemprichii en Perú. En dos de los casos se observó afección neurológica motora leve a moderada y, en todos, se presentó un acentuado trastorno sensitivo con hiperestesia e hiperalgesia irradiada desde el sitio de la mordedura hacia todo el hemicuerpo comprometido. El único paciente que recibió antiveneno, el cual no era específico para el tipo de envenenamiento, desarrolló una reacción al suero equino a los ocho días de su aplicación. Se presentan y discuten los resultados de las pruebas de laboratorio, incluido el estudio electromiográfico, así como el registro fotográfico de las manifestaciones clínicas y de los agentes causales.

Abstract | We report two snakebites by Micrurus ortoni in Colombia and one by M. hemprichii in Perú. In two of the cases, we observed mild to moderate motor neurological involvement and in all patients, there was a marked sensory effect with hyperesthesia and hyperalgesia radiating from the bite site to the entire ipsilateral hemibody. The only patient who received antivenom, which did not correspond with the type of envenomation, developed equine serum sickness eight days after its administration. The results of the laboratory tests, including an electromyographic study, the photographic record of the clinical manifestations, and the causative agents are presented and discussed.

Case report of a coral snake bite (Micrurus ibiboboca) in the state of Pernambuco, northeast Brazil / Relato de caso de picada de cobra coral (Micrurus ibiboboca) no estado de Pernambuco, nordeste do Brasil / Informe de caso de mordedura de serpiente coral (Micrurus ibiboboca) en el estado de Pernambuco, noreste de Brasil

The Elapidae family comprises 35 snake species in Brazil, with Micrurus ibiboboca being widely distributed in the northeast of the country. Despite the high number of Micrurus species in Brazil, there are few cases of human envenomation in literature. This study describes a clinical report of envenomation due to the bite of M. ibiboboca in the State of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil, that took place in 2017. The patient presented symptoms of muscle paralysis and sweating. He was admitted to the intensive care unit. A total of 10 ampoules of anti-elapidic serum were administered. The patient complained of local pain that extended through the arm, paresthesia in the lower limbs, headache, and chest pain. Changes in the visual, respiratory, and neurological systems were not observed. This clinical case report on coral snake poisoning is useful for increasing the knowledge on the toxicological action of snake poison and its effect on injured individuals, thereby helping in the clinical evaluation and treatment.(AU)

A família Elapidae compreende 35 espécies de serpentes no Brasil, com Micrurus ibiboboca amplamente distribuída no Nordeste. Apesar do elevado número de espécies de Micrurus no Brasil, são poucos os casos de envenenamento humano na literatura. Descrevemos aqui um relato clínico de envenenamento por picada de M. ibiboboca no Estado de Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil, ocorrido em 2017. O paciente apresentava sintomas de paralisia muscular e sudorese. Ele foi internado na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Um total de 10 ampolas de soro anti-elapídico foi administrado. O paciente queixava-se de dor local que se estendia pelo braço, parestesia em membros inferiores, cefaleia e dor torácica. Não foram observados alterações nos sistemas de visão, respiratório e neurológico. Este relato de caso clínico de intoxicação por cobra coral é útil para aumentar o conhecimento sobre a ação toxicológica da peçonha da serpente e seu efeito sobre os acidentados, auxiliando na avaliação clínica e no tratamento.(AU)

La familia Elapidae comprende 35 especies de serpientes en Brasil como la Micrurus ibiboboca ampliamente distribuidas en el Noreste. A pesar de lo alto número de especies de Micrurus en Brasil, hay pocos casos de envenenamiento humano en la literatura. Describimos aquí un informe clínico de envenenamiento por mordedura de M. ibiboboca en el estado de Pernambuco, Noreste de Brasil, ocurrido en 2017. El paciente presentaba síntomas de parálisis muscular y sudoración. Fue ingresado en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Se administraron un total de 10 ampollas de suero antielapídico. El paciente se quejaba de dolor local que se extendía por el brazo, parestesias en las extremidades inferiores, cefalea y dolor torácico. No se observaron cambios en los sistemas visual, respiratorio y neurológico. Este informe de caso clínico sobre la intoxicación por serpiente coral es útil para aumentar el conocimiento sobre la acción toxicológica del veneno de serpientes y su efecto en los individuos lesionados, ayudando así en la evaluación clínica y el tratamiento.(AU)

Aspectos biomédicos y epidemiológicos del accidente ofídico en el departamento del Cauca, Colombia, 2009-2018 / Snakebite biomedical and epidemiological aspects in the department of Cauca, Colombia, 2009-2018

Resumen | Introducción. El ofidismo en Colombia es un problema de salud pública, lo cual se hace evidente al examinar los datos epidemiológicos a nivel latinoamericano, pues el país ocupa el tercer lugar en número de accidentes ofídicos después de Brasil y México. Objetivo. Hacer un análisis retrospectivo de los casos de accidente ofídico ocurridos entre 2009 y 2018 en el departamento de Cauca, según los datos del Sistema de Vigilancia en Salud Pública (Sivigila) registrados en el Instituto Departamental de Salud del Cauca. Materiales y métodos. Se recopiló e interpretó la información consignada en las fichas de notificación obligatoria de accidente ofídico en los 10 años de estudio. Se determinaron la incidencia y la frecuencia de accidentes según la distribución geográfica y los agentes causales, y se analizaron las variables socioeconómicas relacionadas. Resultados. Se registraron 1.653 casos y una baja mortalidad. Los géneros Bothrops y Bothriechis causaron la mayoría (77,43 %) de los accidentes, seguidos por el género Micrurus (2,9 %). La mayoría de las notificaciones procedían del sur del departamento; las personas de sexo masculino y los agricultores fueron los más afectados, con mordeduras en las extremidades superiores principalmente. Las principales manifestaciones del envenenamiento fueron las hemorrágicas, más frecuentes que la necrosis y la infección. Aunque el criterio para utilizar la seroterapia no siempre fue el mejor, las complicaciones iatrogénicas no fueron frecuentes. Conclusiones. Los municipios de El Tambo y Piamonte, las personas de sexo masculino y las áreas rurales, fueron las variables más afectadas por el ofidismo, principalmente el ofidismo botrópico. Las mayores incidencias se presentaron en la zona sur del Cauca, en las cuencas de los ríos Patía y Caquetá.

Abstract | Introduction: Snakebite is a relevant public health problem in Colombia, which is evident in epidemiological data at the Latin American level, where it ranks third place in the number of snakebites, after México and Brazil. Objective: To perform a retrospective analysis of snakebite accidents in the department of Cauca between 2009 and 2018 based on the data from the Public Health Surveillance System of Colombia reported to the Health Institute of Cauca. Materials and methods: We compiled and interpreted the information from the compulsory snakebite notification forms for the study's 10 years period. We determined snakebite incidence and frequency according to the geographical distribution and the causal agents, and we analyzed related socioeconomic variables as well. Results: The records accounted for 1,653 cases and low mortality. Bothrops and Bothriechis species (77.43%) caused most of the accidents followed by Micrurus (2.9%). Most of the notifications came from the south of the department, and males and farmers were the most affected with bites mainly in the upper extremities. During poisoning, hemorrhagic manifestations predominated over necrosis and infections; serotherapy criteria were not always adequately applied, however, iatrogenic complications were not frequent. Conclusions: El Tambo and Piamonte municipalities, being male, and rural areas were the variables most affected by ophidism, mainly bothropic ophidism. The highest incidences occurred in the southern part of Cauca, in the Patía and Caquetá river basins.

Variaciones de caracteres morfológicos dentro de la especie Bothrops alternatus / Morphological characters variations within the Bothrops alternatus species

Resumen El género Bothrops (yarará) es responsable de más del 95% de los accidentes por ofidios venenosos en Argentina. La mayoría de éstos son notificados en provincias del Nordeste y Noroeste. Bothrops alternatus, es la especie más frecuentementehallada, siendo el vipérido de gran talla más meridional del mundo y una de las especies de mayor importancia sanitaria en Argentina, pudiendo hallarse en relación a núcleos urbanos. Presentan en el dorso figuras arriñonadas características, que remedan atubos de teléfono o porotos unidos, completos o incompletos, hasta la forma fusionada. Presenta foseta loreal, órgano termore-ceptor ubicado entre el ojo y la fosa nasal. Su dentición es solenoglifa, dientes inoculadores huecos, con conducto cerrado, fijosa un hueso maxilar móvil. Si bien se describen variaciones entre animales, se considera una especie monotípica. Su identificaciónes importante dada la abundancia de especímenes y de hallazgos en regiones periurbanas.

Abstract The Bothrops genus is responsible for more than 95% of ophidian accidents in Argentina, most of these are reported in the Northeast and Northwest provinces. Bothrops alternatus, is the most frequent species of the genus Bothrops (yarará), themost southern large-scale viperid in the world and one of the most important species in Argentina, being able to be found in rela-tion to urban nucleus. Their characteristic features are kidney-like figures in the skin, that mimic phone tubes or beans, completeor incomplete, until the merged form. It presents a loreal pit, thermoreceptor organ located between the eye and the nostril. Itsdentition is solenoglyphous, hollow inoculating teeth, with closed duct, fixed to a mobile maxillary bone. Although variationsbetween animals are described, it is considered a monotypic species. The identification of this snake is important due their abun-dance in around urban regions and its frequency of finding.