ABSTRACT
Snake bites are a serious medical emergency. They are most commonly associated with substantial morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. This study aimed to determine the epidemiological profile of snake bites, as well as their severity and treatment in children in the Marrakech pediatric intensive care unit. The clinicobiological picture, physiopathology, the toxicokinetics of the venom, and the risk factors are discussed. Treatment of confirmed envenomation is based on antivenom administration via the venous route as soon as possible after the bite. Its efficacy and tolerance have been established by several studies. In our context, no specific immunotherapy is available, and the management of snake bites is based on symptomatic measures. Hence, the local health institutions must ensure the availability of antivenom specific to the Moroccan snake species, the only proven specific therapy against snake bite envenomation. The administration of highly purified immunoglobulin appears to improve the prognosis of envenomation, reduce morbidity and mortality, and reduce the length of the hospital stay.
