Study of venom neutralising efficacy of monospecific cloudy liquid antivenom

ABSTRACT

Venom neutralizing efficacy of a batch of monospecific cloudy liquid antivenom H 93723 expiry 8-9-97 was assessed retrospectively on seven systemic Russell's viper bite cases. Each received 40 mls (4 ampoules) of antivenom which includes one to four ampoules of cloudy antivenom. Venom antigen and antivenom levels before and after the antivenom were followed up to 72 h by enzyme immunoassay technique. Results indicated that in severe envenomed cases (venom level > 80 ng/ml) (n=4), venom antigen remained detectable up to 8 to 12 h and antivenom was not detected until 4 to 10 h (12-20 h in 2 cases) after the antivenom. Dose related neutralising efficacy of cloudy antivenom was observed. Five out of 7 patients were fatal. Use of cloudy or precipitated antivenom should be discontinued.