A study on the clinico-epidemiological profile and the outcome of snake bite cases in the tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: - To study the clinico-epidemiological profile and outcome of snake bite cases at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods -A prospective observational study of 167 patients of snake bite and unknown bite carried out from 1st September 2012 to 31st August 2013. Results - Among a total 167 cases of snake bite recorded, predominantly were males [54.49%], aged between 20-40 years [38.92%]. Majority cases were labourers [61.67%] and farmers [17.36%] from rural area. Peak incidence was observed during monsoon [64.67%]. Bite mark was seen in 46.70% cases & upper extremity was most common site [52.09%]. Most cases were of vasculotoxic bite [65.26%] with pain, swelling, cellulitisand neurotoxic bite [19.76%] with ptosis, breathlessness. Major complications were respiratory failure [4.79%] and acute renal failure [1.8%]. Average bite to needle time was 365 min. Bleeding time was raised in 44.03% cases and clotting time was raised in 35.19% cases.Average dose of ASV required was 17.1 vials. Allergic reactions to ASV observed in 8.38% cases. Mean duration of hospital stay was 4.3 days. Majority cases were recovered [94.01%] and 3 cases referred to higher Centre. Mortality rate was 2.39%. Conclusion-We conclude that snake bite cases presenting to our tertiary care hospital are mainly young male labourers from rural area. Most cases are of vasculotoxic snake bite with bite to needle time 365 min. The recovery rate is > 90%. Average dose of ASV required was 17.1 vials (RS.13680/ patient). Thus, Snake bite cases are putting high economic burden on health care system.