Snake bite in Al-Dahira region of Oman

ABSTRACT

Snake bite is a common preventable condition in most of the Sultanate of Oman. One hundred cases of snake bite at two Ibri hospitals [AI Dahira region] were studied retrospectively extending over a period between October 1992 and June 1996. The types and clinical presentations of snake bites prevalent in Oman in general and AI-Dahira region in particular are discussed. The patients presented very early to the health facilities, thereby reducing subsequent complications and mortality which was nil. This study is also compared at relevant places, with a similar study by me at Liaqat Medical College Hospital [LMCH], Sindh, Pakistan, in 1986, and by Pawar at Ibra in 1985. Striking differences are found and highlighted regarding dosage of anti-snake venom [ASV]. Average total dose of ASV administered per patient was 159 ml. This was a huge amount of ASV, as compared with only 32 ml per patient in LMCH study. The validity of ASV administration, the manufacturer's directions, and its dosage are critically analysed and correlated with the clinical presentations in this series. Its indications and relevant literature are reviewed