Efficacy and safety of snake antivenom therapy: Experience of a regional hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Snakebite is a commonly encountered envenomation emergency in the rural areas of Hong Kong. The majority of cases do not warrant antivenom therapy. We looked into those receiving antivenom to enhance the understanding of the results of antivenom therapy. Methods: This was a retrospective review of the snakebite cases treated with antivenom in Tuen Mun Hospital from 1st January 2000 to 31 st August 2005, focusing on both the therapeutic and side effects of the antivenom. Results: Twelve patients were identified. All had local symptoms of swelling or numbness. Two of them subsequently developed skin necrosis requiring operative treatment. Thrombocytopenia was less amenable to correction than prolonged INR. No early or late allergic reactions were observed. Conclusion: Because of the small number of cases, the apparent safety of the antivenoms in the current review warrants larger trials in future.