envenomation: a report of three cases.

BACKGROUND

envenomation is associated with severe hematological and wound complications but is rarely described.

CASE PRESENTATION

Herein, we report three cases of victims bitten by and indicate that rapid-onset severe coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia are distinct features of snakebite, which are not observed in other crotaline snakebites (i.e., and ) in Taiwan. The toxic effects could occur as early as 2 to 3 h following envenomation and persist if the administration of specific antivenom is delayed or even not commenced. Based on our findings, 2 to 4 vials of specific antivenom as the first dose should be administered to victims and repeated at 6 to 8 h intervals if coagulopathy or thrombocytopenia persists. Fresh frozen plasma or platelet replacement is probably safe as an adjunct therapy for bite in the presence of venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy.

CONCLUSION

Severe coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia could occur as early as 2 to 3 h after envenomation. The current recommendation for antivenom is 2 to 4 vials as the first dose and repeated every 6- to 8 h if coagulopathy or thrombocytopenia persists. These cases studied may be helpful to first-line medical personnel in the early diagnosis and management of envenomation among other crotaline snakebites in Taiwan.