Clinical Review of Venomous Snake Bite

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to understand venomous snake bites and to predict the prognosis in the clinical course. METHODS: From April 1995 to October 1999, the case histories of 97 patients with venomous snake bites were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: The ages of the patients varied from 17 to 76 (mean age was 49.2 years), and the peak age was in the fourth decade. The sex ratio of males to females was 1.91. The accidents occurred mainly in summer (77.3%). According to the grade of envenomation, grade I and II were most common (77.3%). The duration of hospitalization was proportional to the grade of envenomation. The snake bites most commonly occurred in fields (56.7%). The finger was the most common site of the bite (51.5%). 96.9% of the patients arrived at the hospital within 4 hours. 97.9% of the patients were treated with antivenin. The most common local symptoms and signs were edema and pain. The most common general symptoms and signs were blurred vision, dizziness, and hematuria. The most common complication was celluitis. Severe complications such as UGI bleeding and DIC occurred in grade II and III. CONCLUSION: The most important factor for determining the prognosis of venomous snake bites is the grade of envenomation. In grade III or IV envenomation, antivenin should be included as part of intensive systemic treatment.