Snakebites in children in the densely populated city of Hong Kong: a 10‐year survey

Abstract

Aim: To review the pattern and characteristics of snakebites in children in rural Hong Kong. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted. Results: Seven cases of snakebite in children were reported. Eighty‐six percent of the victims were male, and the majority of bites (86%) occurred on the left extremities. Green pit vipers (Trimeresurus albolabris) accounted for most of the snakebites. Local symptomatology was common. Swelling, pain and fang marks were documented in all cases. A mildly deranged clotting profile was found in 70% of patients. There was no incidence of systemic symptoms, cardiopulmonary complications or compartment syndrome. Victims arrived at the hospital at a median (range) time of 40 (10–70) min since the snakebite. Only one child received antivenin owing to severe progressive local symptoms under intensive care monitoring. The median hospital stay of the patients was 4 d. The hands and feet of adolescent boys (n= 6) seem to be particularly prone to being bitten. Conclusion: Children should be discouraged to play in areas where snakes may hide, especially in the evening in summer to autumn. They should wear protective footwear.

Venomous snakebites and antivenom treatment according to a protocol for pediatric patients in taiwan

“…In Taiwan, despite rapid urbanization, snakebites occur often in adults who work on farms, in fields and in forests (7). However, as the habitats of snake species often overlap with human environments, children are occasionally bitten by snakes (8). Venomous snakebites are fatal for small animals but are generally not lethal in humans.…”

Big snake, small snake: which wound is worse when bitten?

“…Venomous snakebites are typically associated with marked oedema and pain within an hour of envenomation (3,4). Haemorrhage and necrosis are common, and paired bite marks are often noted (3). Compartment syndrome occasionally develops in the bitten limb (4,5).…”

“…Snakebite injuries in children and young persons have become uncommon in the metropolitan, densely populated city of Hong Kong (1–4). We previously reported a 10‐year survey of snakebites in children and concluded that children should be discouraged to play in areas where snakes may hide, and that protective footwear should be worn (3). Snakebites are rarely fatal but may cause significant morbidity.…”

Efficacy and Safety of Snake Antivenom Therapy: Experience of a Regional Hospital

“…1,2 Bamboo snake, as with other species of the family Viperidae, causes local wound complications and coagulopathy. The family Elapidae includes cobra (Naja) as one of the genus.…”