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Wood D. Clinical Risk Factors Associated with Poor Outcomes in Snake Envenoming: A Narrative Review. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:675. [PMID: 38133179 PMCID: PMC10747621 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15120675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakebite-related fatalities disproportionately affect populations in impoverished socio-economic regions, marked by limited access to adequate healthcare and constrained antivenom availability. Early medical intervention is pivotal in mitigating mortality and morbidity associated with snakebite envenoming (SBE). While clinical assessment remains fundamental in treating SBE, this review aims to spotlight objective parameters that could also affect outcomes. Selected studies that identify factors associated with poor outcomes are predominantly region-specific, single-site, and observational, yet collectively reveal similar findings. They consistently report factors such as treatment delays, susceptibility in vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, as well as various biochemical and haematological abnormalities. Acute kidney injury (AKI), low platelets, leucocytosis, abnormal coagulation, and elevated creatine kinase (CK) all show an association with poor outcomes. Furthermore, recognising rare and unusual SBE presentations such as adrenal insufficiency, severe hypertension, intracranial haemorrhage, acute angle closure glaucoma, and bowel ischaemia also has a bearing on outcomes. Despite the integration of these parameters into clinical decision tools and guidelines, the validation of this evidence is limited. This review underscores the imperative for high-quality, multi-centre studies aligned with consensus-driven Core Outcome Sets (COS) and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS) to validate and strengthen the current evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darryl Wood
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Blizzard Institute, Queen Mary University, London E1 2AT, UK;
- Queens Hospital, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Trust, Rom Valley Way, Romford, London RM7 0AG, UK
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Chippaux JP, Ntone R, Benhammou D, Madec Y, Noël G, Perilhou A, Karl F, Amta P, Sanchez M, Matchim L, Clauteaux P, Eteki L, Ndifon M, Boum Y, Nkwescheu AS, Taieb F. Real life condition evaluation of Inoserp PAN-AFRICA antivenom effectiveness in Cameroon. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011707. [PMID: 37939111 PMCID: PMC10659212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebites is a serious public health issue but remains a neglected tropical disease. Data on antivenom effectiveness are urgently needed in Africa. We assessed effectiveness of Inoserp PAN-AFRICA (IPA), the recommended antivenom available in Cameroon. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We enrolled 447 patients presenting with snakebite in 14 health facilities across Cameroon. At presentation, cytotoxicity, coagulation troubles and neurotoxicity were graded. We administered two to four vials of antivenom to patients based on hemotoxic or neurotoxic signs. We renewed antivenom administration to patients with persistence of bleedings or neurotoxicity 2 hours after each injection. We defined early improvement as a reduction of the grade of envenomation symptoms 2 hours after first injection. Medium-term effectiveness was investigated looking at disappearance of symptoms during hospitalization. After hospital discharge, a home visit was planned to assess long-term outcomes. Between October 2019 and May 2021, we enrolled 447 (93.7%), including 72% from the savannah regions. The median [IQR] age was 25 [14-40]. Envenomation was diagnosed in 369 (82.6%) participants. The antivenom was administered to 356 patients (96.5%) of whom 256 (71.9%) received one administration. Among these patients, cytotoxic symptoms were observed in 336 (94.4%) participants, coagulation disorders in 234 (65.7%) participants and neurotoxicity in 23 (6.5%) participants. Two hours after the first administration of antivenom, we observed a decrease in coagulation disorders or neurotoxicity in 75.2% and 39.1% of patients, respectively. Complete cessation of bleedings and neurotoxicity occurred in 96% and 93% of patients within 24 hours, respectively. Sequelae have been observed in 9 (3%) patients at the home visit 15 days after hospital admission and 11 (3%) died including one before antivenom injection. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE We confirmed good effectiveness of the IPA and highlighted the rapid improvement in bleeding or neurotoxicity after the first administration. Sequential administrations of low doses of antivenom, rigorously assessed at short intervals for an eventual renewal, can preserve patient safety and save antivenom. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03326492.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Philippe Chippaux
- Université Paris Cité, Institut de Recherche pour le développement, MERIT, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche Translationnelle, Paris, France
| | | | - David Benhammou
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Emerging Diseases Epidemiology unit, Paris, France
| | - Yoann Madec
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Emerging Diseases Epidemiology unit, Paris, France
| | - Gaëlle Noël
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche Translationnelle, Paris, France
| | - Anais Perilhou
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche Translationnelle, Paris, France
| | - Fai Karl
- Epicentre Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Marie Sanchez
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Data management core facility, Paris, France
| | | | - Pedro Clauteaux
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche Translationnelle, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Yap Boum
- Epicentre Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Tianyi FL, Hamza M, Abubakar SB, Al Solaiss J, Trelfa A, Abdullahi HL, Iliyasu G, Mohammed N, Mohammed SA, Casewell NR, Harrison RA, Lalloo DG, Stienstra Y, Habib AG. Diagnostic characteristics of the 20-minute whole blood clotting test in detecting venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy following carpet viper envenoming. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011442. [PMID: 37363905 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Envenoming by Echis spp. (carpet or saw-scaled vipers) causes haemorrhage and coagulopathy and represents a significant proportion of snakebites in the savannah regions of West Africa. Early diagnosis of envenoming is crucial in the management of these patients and there is limited evidence on the utility of the 20-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) in diagnosing venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy (VICC) following envenoming by Echis ocellatus. METHODS A prospective observational cohort study was conducted at the Kaltungo General Hospital in North-eastern Nigeria from September 2019 to September 2021. Standardised 20WBCTs were conducted by trained hospital staff and citrated plasma samples were collected at numerous timepoints. Prothrombin time (PT) and international normalised ratio (INR) were determined using a semi-automated analyser and INR values were calculated using international sensitivity indices (ISI). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values (PPV), negative predictive values (NPV), and likelihood ratios of the 20WBCT compared to an INR ≥ 1.4 were calculated, alongside 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS We enrolled 121 patients into our study, with a median age of 26 (18.0-35.0) years and a male predominance (75.2%). The 20WBCT was positive (abnormal) in 101 out of 121 patients at timepoint 0h, of which 95 had an INR ≥ 1.4, giving a sensitivity of 87.2% (95%CI 79.4-92.8). Among patients with a negative 20WBCT (normal), six had an INR < 1.4 giving a specificity of 50% (95%CI 21.1-78.9%). The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 1.7 (95%CI 1.6-1.9) and 0.3 (95%CI 0.1-0.4) respectively. CONCLUSION The 20WBCT is a simple, cheap, and easily accessible bedside test with a high sensitivity for the detection of patients with venom induced consumptive coagulopathy (VICC) following envenoming by E. ocellatus, although false positives do occur. Repeated 20WBCTs can identify patients with new, persistent, and rebound coagulopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank-Leonel Tianyi
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Muhammad Hamza
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Saidu B Abubakar
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Jaffer Al Solaiss
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Trelfa
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Hadiza L Abdullahi
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Garba Iliyasu
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Nuhu Mohammed
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Suleman A Mohammed
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Nicholas R Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Robert A Harrison
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - David G Lalloo
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ymkje Stienstra
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- University of Groningen, Department of Internal Medicine/Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Abdulrazaq G Habib
- Nigeria Snakebite Research and Intervention Centre, Centre for Advanced Medical Research, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Science, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
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Suseel A, Abraham SV, Paul S, Tomy MML, Rafi AM. Comparing modified Lee and White method against 20-minute whole blood clotting test as bedside coagulation screening test in snake envenomation victims. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20220088. [PMID: 37342654 PMCID: PMC10278964 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2022-0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Twenty-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) and Modified Lee and White (MLW) method are the most routinely employed bedside tests for detecting coagulopathic snake envenomation. Our study compared the diagnostic utility of MLW and 20WBCT for snakebite victims at a tertiary care hospital in Central Kerala, South India. Methods This single-center study recruited 267 patients admitted with snake bites. 20WBCT and MLW were performed simultaneously at admission along with the measurement of Prothrombin Time (PT). The diagnostic utility of 20WBCT and MLW was determined by comparing the sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios, and accuracy at admission with an INR value > 1.4. Results Out of 267 patients, 20 (7.5%) patients had VICC. Amongst those who had venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC), MLW was prolonged for 17 patients, (Sn 85% 95% confidence interval [CI]: 61.1-96.0) whereas 20WBCT was abnormal for 11 patients (Sn 55%, 95% CI: 32.04-76.17). MLW and 20WBCT were falsely positive for the same patient (Sp 99.6%, 95% CI: 97.4-99.9%). Conclusion MLW is more sensitive than 20WBCT to detect coagulopathy at the bedside amongst snakebite victims. However, further studies are necessary for standardizing bedside coagulation tests in snakebite cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Appu Suseel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Siju V. Abraham
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Sarah Paul
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Maglin Monica Lisa Tomy
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Aboobacker Mohamed Rafi
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Shahmy S, Kularatne SAM, Gawarammana IB, Rathnayake SS, Dawson AH. Compliance with national snakebite treatment guidelines in rural Sri Lankan hospitals: a cluster randomized controlled trial of a brief educational intervention. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:390. [PMID: 37245040 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04375-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite is a global health problem that predominantly occurs in rural areas. In Sri Lanka, the majority of snakebite patients first present to smaller rural primary hospitals. Improving care delivered at rural hospitals has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality from snakebites. OBJECTIVE In this study, we evaluated whether an educational intervention would increase compliance with national snakebite treatment guidelines in primary hospitals. METHODS The hospitals were randomized into educational intervention (n = 24) and control groups (n = 20). The intervention hospitals received a brief educational intervention based on Sri Lankan Medical Association (SLMA) guidelines on the management of snakebites. Control hospitals had free access to the guidelines but no additional promotion. Four outcomes were assessed: pre- and post-test knowledge at the completion of a one-day workshop of educational intervention (intervention group only); improvement in the quality of the patient's medical records; appropriateness of transfers to higher hospitals; and quality of overall management graded by a blinded expert. The data was collected over a period of 12 months. RESULTS All case notes of snakebite hospital admissions were reviewed. There were 1021 cases in the intervention group hospitals and 1165 cases in the control hospitals. Four hospitals in the intervention group and three hospitals in the control group did not have snakebite admissions and were excluded from the cluster analysis. The absolute quality of care was high in both groups. Post-test knowledge was improved (p < 0.0001) following the intervention group's educational workshop. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of clinical data documentation in hospital notes (scores, p = 0.58) or transfer appropriateness (p = 0.68)-both of which were significantly different from the guidelines. CONCLUSION Education of primary hospital staff improved the immediate knowledge gained but did not improve record-keeping or the appropriateness of inter-hospital patient transfer. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered with Sri Lanka Medical Associations' clinical trial registry. Reg. No SLCTR -2013-023. Registered: 30/07/2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Shahmy
- National Science and Technology Commission of Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.
| | | | - Indika B Gawarammana
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Shantha S Rathnayake
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Andrew H Dawson
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Central Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Antivenom availability, delays and use in Australia. Toxicon X 2023; 17:100145. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Wedasingha S, Silva A, Siribaddana S, Seneviratne K, Isbister GK. Comparison of bedside clotting tests for detecting venom-induced consumption coagulopathy following Sri Lankan viper envenoming. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2022; 60:1328-1335. [PMID: 36322690 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2022.2128816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The whole blood clotting test (WBCT) is commonly used for diagnosing venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC) in resource-poor settings. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of the WBCT and capillary blood clotting test (CBCT) for detecting VICC in viper envenoming in Sri Lanka. METHODS All confirmed snakebites admitted to Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura from July 2020 to June 2021 were included. On admission, WBCTs after 15, 20 and 25 min observation times (WBCT-15, WBCT-20 and WBCT-25) and CBCT observed in 30 s intervals (CBCT-t), 5 and 10 min CBCT (CBCT-5 and CBCT-10) were done. Blood was collected simultaneously for prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio (INR) and plasma fibrinogen. We defined VICC as an INR >1.5 (Incomplete VICC = INR>1.5 and complete VICC = ≥3.0). RESULTS A total of 272 confirmed snakebites (Russell's viper[76], hump-nosed viper[89], non-venomous snakes[51] and unidentified bites[56]) were recruited (median age: 42 y [interquartile range: 30- 53 y]; 189 males [69%]). On admission, 82 (30%) had incomplete VICC (INR >1.5 and <3) and 77 (28%) had complete VICC (INR ≥3). Sixteen (6%) developed clinically apparent bleeding. The WBCT-15 had the best sensitivity of 47% for detecting VICC and 68% for complete VICC. The sensitivities of the WBCT-20, WBCT-25, CBCT-5 and CBCT-10 was 30-35%. The sensitivities of all tests were better in detecting complete VICC, VICC in Russell's viper bites and more than 2 h post-bite. The WBCT-15 test had a sensitivity of 76% for VICC in confirmed Russell's viper bites. For detection of VICC, CBCT-t had an an excellent sensitivity of 97%, but a poor specificity of 35% for an optimal cut-off of >6.25 min. CONCLUSION WBCTs are poorly diagnostic for VICC in Russell's viper and hump-nosed viper envenoming, missing up to two-thirds of patients for some tests. The WBCT-15 was the best test, improving for more severe VICC and greater than 2 h post-bite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supun Wedasingha
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka.,South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration (SACTRC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Anjana Silva
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka.,South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration (SACTRC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.,Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sisira Siribaddana
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration (SACTRC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.,Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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Rajkumar B, Vishwanath Vinod K, Kar R, Ramasubramani P. Venom induced consumption coagulopathy and performance of 20-min whole blood clotting test for its detection in viperid envenomation. J R Coll Physicians Edinb 2022; 52:232-239. [PMID: 36300884 DOI: 10.1177/14782715221126770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Venom induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC) and its underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated in viperid envenomation (VE), especially among Indian patients. We evaluated for VICC in VE, assessed the performance of 20-min whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) for VICC detection and also studied predictors of VICC. Methods: This hospital-based observational study enrolled 103 consecutive patients (age ⩾ 12 years) of snakebite admitted within 24 h of bite, with features of VE. They underwent 20WBCT, prothrombin time (PT)/international normalised ratio (INR), plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer testing during first 24 h after enrolment. Overt VICC (defined by overt bleeding), subclinical VICC (INR ⩾ 1.4 and/or fibrinogen < 2g/L, without overt bleeding), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) (overt/non-overt, defined based on International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) DIC score) and primary defibrination (PDF) were evaluated among patients. Results: VICC overall was noted in 77 (≈75%) and overt VICC in 52 (≈50%). DIC (overt/non-overt) was noted in 59 (≈77%) and PDF in 2 (2.6%) patients with VICC. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 20WBCT for VICC detection were 98.7% (95%CI: 92.9–99.9%), 65.4% (95%CI: 44.3–82.8%), 89.4% (95%CI: 83.3–93.5%) and 94.4% (95%CI: 70.4–99.2%) respectively. Severe cellulitis in bitten limb predicted reduced VICC risk. Conclusion: Majority (75%) of patients with VE had VICC and 68% with VICC had overt bleeding. DIC (overt/non-overt) was the predominant contributor to VICC. Though 20WBCT is a good screening test for VICC, false positive results should be kept in mind before deciding on snake antivenom treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayye Rajkumar
- Department of General Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research [JIPMER], Puducherry, India
| | | | - Rakhee Kar
- Department of Pathology, JIPMER, Puducherry, India
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Silva A, Scorgie FE, Lincz LF, Maduwage K, Siribaddana S, Isbister GK. Indian Polyvalent Antivenom Accelerates Recovery From Venom-Induced Consumption Coagulopathy (VICC) in Sri Lankan Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii) Envenoming. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:852651. [PMID: 35321467 PMCID: PMC8934852 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.852651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC) is an important clinical consequence of Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii) envenoming. There is limited evidence for antivenom effectiveness in resolving VICC. We aimed to compare the recovery of VICC in patients who received and did not receive antivenom following Russell’s viper envenoming. Patients and Methods This was a non-randomized observational study comparing patients with VICC from Russell’s viper envenoming given antivenom for systemic envenoming and those not given antivenom. Antivenom administration was decided by the treating physicians. We included 44 patients with confirmed Russell’s viper bites with one or more International Normalized Ratio (INR) value ≥ 1.5 (VICC). We compared five patients who did not receive antivenom with 39 patients who did receive antivenom. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with an INR < 1.5 by 48 h post-bite. Results The antivenom group had higher peak serum venom concentrations [median (IQR) = 272 (96–1,076) ng/mL versus 21 (8–58) ng/mL] and more severe VICC compared to the no antivenom group. Twenty seven of 39 patients (69%) in the antivenom group had an INR < 1.5 at 48 h post-bite compared to none of the five patients (0%) in the no antivenom group (absolute difference: 69%; 95%CI: 13 to 83%; p = 0.006; Fisher’s exact test). The fibrinogen recovered in 32 of 39 patients (82%) in the antivenom group compared to one of five patients (20%) in the no antivenom group (absolute difference 62%; 95% CI: 28 to 95%; p = 0.001; Fisher’s exact test). Both INR and fibrinogen were significantly improved between 24 and 48 h post-bite in the antivenom group compared to the no antivenom group. Conclusion Antivenom accelerated the recovery of VICC in patients with Russell’s viper envenoming, compared to no recovery in a smaller group of patients with milder VICC not receiving antivenom. This supports the efficacy of antivenom in patients with VICC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Silva
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration (SACTRC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Fiona E. Scorgie
- Hunter Haematology Research Group, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa F. Lincz
- Hunter Haematology Research Group, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Kalana Maduwage
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Sisira Siribaddana
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Geoffrey K. Isbister
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration (SACTRC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Geoffrey K. Isbister,
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Abstract
SNAKE ENVENOMATION REPRESENTS AN IMPORTANT HEALTH PROBLEM IN much of the world. In 2009, it was recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a neglected tropical disease, and in 2017, it was elevated into Category A of the Neglected Tropical Diseases list, further expanding access to funding for research and antivenoms. However, snake envenomation occurs in both tropical and temperate climates and on all continents except Antarctica. Worldwide, the estimated number of annual deaths due to snake envenomation (80,000 to 130,000) is similar to the estimate for drug-resistant tuberculosis and for multiple myeloma., In countries with adequate resources, deaths are infrequent (e.g., <6 deaths per year in the United States, despite the occurrence of 7000 to 8000 bites), but in countries without adequate resources, deaths may number in the tens of thousands. Venomous snakes kept as pets are not rare, and physicians anywhere might be called on to manage envenomation by a nonnative snake. Important advances have occurred in our understanding of the biology of venom and the management of snake envenomation since this topic was last addressed in the Journal two decades ago. For the general provider, it is important to understand the spectrum of snake envenomation effects and approaches to management and to obtain specific guidance, when needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Seifert
- From the Department of Emergency Medicine and the New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque (S.A.S.); the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (J.O.A.); and the National Natural Toxins Research Center and the Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville (E.E.S.)
| | - James O Armitage
- From the Department of Emergency Medicine and the New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque (S.A.S.); the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (J.O.A.); and the National Natural Toxins Research Center and the Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville (E.E.S.)
| | - Elda E Sanchez
- From the Department of Emergency Medicine and the New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque (S.A.S.); the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (J.O.A.); and the National Natural Toxins Research Center and the Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville (E.E.S.)
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11
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Sirur FM, Lath V, A S C, Mohan G, Shastry S. A Tropical Kiss by a Malabar Pit Viper. Wilderness Environ Med 2021; 33:116-121. [PMID: 34865965 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Snakebite in India is often attributed to the "big 4," for which polyvalent anti-snake venom is effective. Also significant and less known is the burden of other venomous snakes, one of which is Trimeresurus malabaricus. We report a bite to the face of a tree climber by Trimeresurus malabaricus in the Western Ghats of India, which caused severe local envenomation in the form of facial edema and systemic signs of envenomation, including coagulopathy and hypotension. We discuss the role of thromboelastogram, infrared thermography, and routine diagnostics in this case, which led to the administration of Indian-made polyvalent anti-snake venom. The patient recovered and was discharged without any clinically evident physiological or physical dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freston Marc Sirur
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
| | - Vrinda Lath
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Chethana A S
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Ganesh Mohan
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shamee Shastry
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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Hamza M, Knudsen C, Gnanathasan CA, Monteiro W, Lewin MR, Laustsen AH, Habib AG. Clinical management of snakebite envenoming: Future perspectives. Toxicon X 2021; 11:100079. [PMID: 34430847 PMCID: PMC8374517 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in rural communities throughout the tropics. Generally, the main clinical features of snakebites are local swelling, tissue necrosis, shock, spontaneous systemic hemorrhage, incoagulable blood, paralysis, rhabdomyolysis, and acute kidney injury. These clinical manifestations result from complex biochemical venom constituents comprising of cytotoxins, hemotoxins, neurotoxins, myotoxins, and other substances. Timely diagnosis of envenoming and identification of the responsible snake species is clinically challenging in many parts of the world and necessitates prompt and thorough clinical assessment, which could be supported by the development of reliable, affordable, widely-accessible, point-of-care tests. Conventional antivenoms based on polyclonal antibodies derived from animals remain the mainstay of therapy along with supportive medical and surgical care. However, while antivenoms save countless lives, they are associated with adverse reactions, limited potency, and are relatively inefficacious against presynaptic neurotoxicity and in preventing necrosis. Nevertheless, major scientific and technological advances are facilitating the development of new molecular and immunologic diagnostic tests, as well as a new generation of antivenoms comprising human monoclonal antibodies with broader and more potent neutralization capacity and less immunogenicity. Repurposed pharmaceuticals based on small molecule inhibitors (e.g., marimastat and varespladib) used alone and in combination against enzymatic toxins, such as metalloproteases and phospholipase A2s, have shown promise in animal studies. These orally bioavailable molecules could serve as early interventions in the out-of-hospital setting if confirmed to be safe and efficacious in clinical studies. Antivenom access can be improved by the usage of drones and ensuring constant antivenom supply in remote endemic rural areas. Overall, the improvement of clinical management of snakebite envenoming requires sustained, coordinated, and multifaceted efforts involving basic and applied sciences, new technology, product development, effective clinical training, implementation of existing guidelines and therapeutic approaches, supported by improved supply of existing antivenoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hamza
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Cecilie Knudsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Wuelton Monteiro
- Department of Research, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- School of Health Sciences, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Matthew R. Lewin
- Center for Exploration and Travel Health, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, USA
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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13
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Lamb T, Abouyannis M, de Oliveira SS, Shenoy K. R, Geevar T, Zachariah A, Sharma SK, Bhatt N, Mukaka M, Harriss E, Lalloo DG, Ashley EA, Monteiro WM, Smithuis F, Eddleston M. The 20-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) for snakebite coagulopathy-A systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009657. [PMID: 34375338 PMCID: PMC8405032 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 20-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) has been used to detect coagulopathy following snakebite for almost 50 years. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the 20WBCT was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the 20WBCT to detect coagulopathy, indicative of systemic envenoming. METHODS AND FINDINGS Databases were searched from inception up to 09/12/2020 to identify studies that compared the 20WBCT and INR/fibrinogen on five or more subjects. Data was extracted from full-text articles by two reviewers using a predetermined form. Authors of 29 studies that lacked sufficient details in the manuscript were contacted and included if data meeting the inclusion criteria were provided. Included studies were evaluated for bias using a tailored QUADAS-2 checklist. The study protocol was prospectively registered on PROSPERO database (CRD42020168953). The searches identified 3,599 studies, 15 met the inclusion criteria and 12 were included in the meta-analysis. Data was reported from 6 countries and included a total of 2,270 patients. The aggregate weighted sensitivity of the 20WBCT at detecting INR >1.4 was 0.84 (CI 0.61 to 0.94), the specificity was 0.91 (0.76 to 0.97) and the SROC AUC was 0.94 (CI 0.91 to 0.96). The aggregate weighted sensitivity of the 20WBCT at detecting fibrinogen <100 mg/dL was 0.72 (CI 0.58 to 0.83), the specificity was 0.94 (CI 0.88 to 0.98) and the SROC AUC was 0.93 (0.91 to 0.95). Both analyses that used INR and fibrinogen as the reference test displayed considerable heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of laboratory clotting assays, the 20WBCT remains a highly specific and fairly sensitive bedside test at detecting coagulopathy following snakebite. However, clinicians should be aware of the importance of operator training, standardized equipment and the lower sensitivity of the 20WBCT at detecting mild coagulopathy and resolution of coagulopathy following antivenom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lamb
- Myanmar Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Yangon, Myanmar
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Global Health Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Abouyannis
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- KEMRI–Wellcome Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sâmella Silva de Oliveira
- Dr. Heitor Viera Dourado Tropical Medicine Foundation, Carlos Borborema Clinical Research Unit Manaus, Manaus, Brazil
- College of Health Sciences, University of the State of Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mavuto Mukaka
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Global Health Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Eli Harriss
- Bodleian Health Care Libraries, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David G. Lalloo
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth A. Ashley
- Myanmar Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Yangon, Myanmar
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Global Health Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro
- Dr. Heitor Viera Dourado Tropical Medicine Foundation, Carlos Borborema Clinical Research Unit Manaus, Manaus, Brazil
- College of Health Sciences, University of the State of Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Frank Smithuis
- Myanmar Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Yangon, Myanmar
- Centre of Tropical Medicine and Global Health Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Eddleston
- Pharmacology, Toxicology & Therapeutics, University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration Dept of Clinical Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
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14
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Abouyannis M, Aggarwal D, Lalloo DG, Casewell NR, Hamaluba M, Esmail H. Clinical outcomes and outcome measurement tools reported in randomised controlled trials of treatment for snakebite envenoming: A systematic review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009589. [PMID: 34339410 PMCID: PMC8360524 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite is a priority neglected tropical disease and causes a range of complications that vary depending on the snake species. Randomised clinical trials have used varied outcome measures that do not allow results to be compared or combined. In accordance with the Core Outcomes Measurements in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) initiative, this systematic review aims to support the development of a globally relevant core outcome set for snakebite. METHODS All randomised controlled trials, secondary analyses of randomised controlled trials and study protocols investigating the efficacy of therapeutics for human snakebite envenoming were eligible for inclusion. Study screening and data extraction were conducted in duplicate by two independent reviewers. All primary and secondary outcome measures were extracted and compiled, as were adverse event outcome measures. Similar outcome measures were grouped into domains. The study was prospectively registered with PROSPERO: CRD42020196160. RESULTS This systematic review included 43 randomised controlled trials, two secondary analyses and 13 study protocols. A total of 382 outcome measures were extracted and, after duplicates were merged, there were 153 unique outcomes. The most frequently used outcome domain ('venom antigenaemia') was included in less than one third of the studies. The unique outcomes were classified into 60 outcome domains. Patient-centred outcomes were used in only three of the studies. DISCUSSION Significant heterogeneity in outcome measures exists in snakebite clinical trials. Consensus is needed to select outcome measures that are valid, reliable, patient-centred and feasible. The results of this systematic review strongly support the development of a core outcome set for use in snakebite clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Abouyannis
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Dinesh Aggarwal
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - David G. Lalloo
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas R. Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Mainga Hamaluba
- KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Centre for Tropical Medicine & Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hanif Esmail
- MRC clinical trials unit at UCL, London, United Kingdom
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Gutiérrez JM, Maduwage K, Iliyasu G, Habib A. Snakebite envenoming in different national contexts: Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria. Toxicon X 2021; 9-10:100066. [PMID: 34124644 PMCID: PMC8175406 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease that predominantly affects impoverished rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The global efforts to reduce the impact of this disease must consider the local national contexts and, therefore, comparative studies on envenomings in different countries are necessary to identify strengths, weaknesses and needs. This work presents a comparative analysis of snakebite envenomings in Costa Rica, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria. The comparison included the following aspects: (a) burden of envenomings, (b) historical background of national efforts to confront envenomings, (c) national health systems, (d) antivenom availability and accessibility including local production, (e) training of physicians and nurses in the diagnosis and management of envenomings, (f) prevention campaigns and community-based work, (g) scientific and technological platforms in these topics, and (h) international cooperation programs. Strengths and weaknesses were identified in the three contexts and several urgent tasks to improve the management of this disease in these countries are highlighted. This comparative analysis could be of benefit for similar studies in other national and regional contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501, Costa Rica
| | - Kalana Maduwage
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Garba Iliyasu
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrazaq Habib
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
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16
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Costa TND, Silva AMD, Souza RMD, Monteiro WM, Bernarde PS. Efficacy of the 20-minute whole blood clotting test (WBCT20) in the diagnosis of coagulation alteration related to snakebites in a Western Brazilian Amazon hospital. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2021; 54:e00912021. [PMID: 34105627 PMCID: PMC8186896 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0091-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The efficacy of 20-minute whole blood clotting (WBCT20) and the Lee-White clotting time (LWCT) tests in diagnosing coagulation alterations from snakebites were compared. Methods: We evaluated 89 snakebite cases treated at the Hospital Regional do Juruá em Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brazil. Results: WBCT20 results were normal in 33.7% and unclottable in 66.3% of cases, while LWCT results were normal in 23.6% and altered (prolonged or unclottable) in 76.4% of cases, with no significant differences. Conclusions: The WBCT20 is important for rapidly diagnosing coagulation alterations from snakebites. Furthermore, it is efficient, inexpensive, and can be deployed in isolated hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamires Nascimento da Costa
- Universidade Federal do Acre, Campus Floresta, Laboratório de Herpetologia, Cruzeiro do Sul, AC, Brasil.,Universidade Federal do Acre, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Ciências da Saúde na Amazônia Ocidental, Rio Branco, AC, Brasil
| | - Ageane Mota da Silva
- Instituto Federal do Acre, Campus de Cruzeiro do Sul, Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brasil
| | - Rodrigo Medeiros de Souza
- Universidade Federal do Acre, Campus Floresta, Laboratório de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Cruzeiro do Sul, AC, Brasil
| | - Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro
- Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brasil.,Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brasil
| | - Paulo Sérgio Bernarde
- Universidade Federal do Acre, Campus Floresta, Laboratório de Herpetologia, Cruzeiro do Sul, AC, Brasil.,Universidade Federal do Acre, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Ciências da Saúde na Amazônia Ocidental, Rio Branco, AC, Brasil
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Gooneratne LV, Dharmasena I, Premawardana N, Wimalachandra M, Arya R, Gnanathasan A. Comparison of rotational thromboelastometry parameters with 20-minute whole blood clotting test as a predictor of envenoming in Russell's viper bite patients. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:561-565. [PMID: 33822235 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coagulopathy is an important and common systemic clinical syndrome caused by snake envenoming. The major clinical effect of Russell's viper (RV) envenoming is haematotoxicity. The 20-min whole blood clotting test (WBCT20) is the standard test for identification of envenoming in resource-limited settings. However, its reliability as a diagnostic test has been questioned. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assays different phases of clot formation from initiation to fibrinolysis. Our objective was to compare parameters of ROTEM with WBCT20 and the international normalized ratio (INR) as predictors of envenoming in RV bite patients. METHODS Fifty-three patents with RV bite presenting to Anuradhapura Hospital, Sri Lanka were recruited. Epidemiological and clinical data were obtained. Venous blood samples were collected at admission for ROTEM, INR and WBCT20. RESULTS A total of 46 of 53 patients with RV bites received antivenom serum (AVS); 74% had a non-clottable WBCT20. All 46 had at least one abnormal ROTEM parameter and 93% had a prolonged EXTEM clotting time (EXTEM-CT). The sensitivity of a prolonged INR was only 55%. CONCLUSIONS EXTEM-CT is a better predictor of envenoming and the need for AVS than WBCT20 in RV bites (p=0.02). It provides a numerical value that can be used post-AVS to objectively assess the response and decide on further treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iresha Dharmasena
- Department of Haematology, Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Nuwan Premawardana
- Department of Clinical Medicine University of Rajarata, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Roopen Arya
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Ariaranee Gnanathasan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Sabitha P, Bammigatti C, Deepanjali S, Suryanarayana BS, Kadhiravan T. Point-of-care infrared thermal imaging for differentiating venomous snakebites from non-venomous and dry bites. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008580. [PMID: 33600429 PMCID: PMC7924804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Local envenomation following snakebites is accompanied by thermal changes, which could be visualized using infrared imaging. We explored whether infrared thermal imaging could be used to differentiate venomous snakebites from non-venomous and dry bites. Methods We prospectively enrolled adult patients with a history of snakebite in the past 24 hours presenting to the emergency of a teaching hospital in southern India. A standardized clinical evaluation for symptoms and signs of envenomation including 20-minute whole-blood clotting test and prothrombin time was performed to assess envenomation status. Infrared thermal imaging was done at enrolment, 6 hours, and 24 hours later using a smartphone-based device under ambient conditions. Processed infrared thermal images were independently interpreted twice by a reference rater and once by three novice raters. Findings We studied 89 patients; 60 (67%) of them were male. Median (IQR) time from bite to enrolment was 11 (6.5–15) hours; 21 (24%) patients were enrolled within 6 hours of snakebite. In all, 48 patients had local envenomation with/without systemic envenomation, and 35 patients were classified as non-venomous/dry bites. Envenomation status was unclear in six patients. At enrolment, area of increased temperature around the bite site (Hot spot) was evident on infrared thermal imaging in 45 of the 48 patients with envenomation, while hot spot was evident in only 6 of the 35 patients without envenomation. Presence of hot spot on baseline infrared thermal images had a sensitivity of 93.7% (95% CI 82.8% to 98.7%) and a specificity of 82.9% (66.3% to 93.4%) to differentiate envenomed patients from those without envenomation. Interrater agreement for identifying hot spots was more than substantial (Kappa statistic >0.85), and intrarater agreement was almost perfect (Kappa = 0.93). Paradoxical thermal changes were observed in 14 patients. Conclusions Point-of-care infrared thermal imaging could be useful in the early identification of non-venomous and dry snakebites. Most venomous snakebites cause swelling of the bitten body part within a few hours if venom had been injected. Usually, health care providers diagnose venomous snakebites by doing a clinical examination and by testing for incoagulable blood. If no abnormalities are found, then the snakebite is diagnosed as a non-venomous bite or a dry bite. Swelling of the bitten body part results from venom-induced inflammation and is accompanied by local increase in skin temperature. It is possible to capture visual images of these temperature changes by using infrared imaging, the same technology used in night vision cameras. This study found that most persons with venomous snakebites had hot areas on infrared images while such changes were observed in only a few persons with non-venomous or dry snakebites. This new knowledge could help doctors identify non-venomous and dry snakebites early.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paramasivam Sabitha
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Chanaveerappa Bammigatti
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | - Surendran Deepanjali
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Tamilarasu Kadhiravan
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
- * E-mail:
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19
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Puzari U, Mukherjee AK. Recent developments in diagnostic tools and bioanalytical methods for analysis of snake venom: A critical review. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1137:208-224. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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20
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Isbister GK, Mirajkar N, Fakes K, Brown SGA, Veerati PC. Phospholipase A2 (PLA 2) as an Early Indicator of Envenomation in Australian Elapid Snakebites (ASP-27). Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8110459. [PMID: 33138056 PMCID: PMC7692658 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8110459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Early diagnosis of snake envenomation is essential, especially neurotoxicity and myotoxicity. We investigated the diagnostic value of serum phospholipase (PLA2) in Australian snakebites. In total, 115 envenomated and 80 non-envenomated patients were recruited over 2 years, in which an early blood sample was available pre-antivenom. Serum samples were analyzed for secretory PLA2 activity using a Cayman sPLA2 assay kit (#765001 Cayman Chemical Company, Ann Arbor MI, USA). Venom concentrations were measured for snake identification using venom-specific enzyme immunoassay. The most common snakes were Pseudonaja spp. (33), Notechis scutatus (24), Pseudechis porphyriacus (19) and Tropidechis carinatus (17). There was a significant difference in median PLA2 activity between non-envenomated (9 nmol/min/mL; IQR: 7–11) and envenomated patients (19 nmol/min/mL; IQR: 10–66, p < 0.0001) but Pseudonaja spp. were not different to non-envenomated. There was a significant correlation between venom concentrations and PLA2 activity (r = 0.71; p < 0.0001). PLA2 activity was predictive for envenomation; area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), 0.79 (95% confidence intervals [95%CI]: 0.72–0.85), which improved with brown snakes excluded, AUC-ROC, 0.88 (95%CI: 0.82–0.94). A cut-point of 16 nmol/min/mL gives a sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 100% for Australian snakes, excluding Pseudonaja. PLA2 activity was a good early predictor of envenomation in most Australian elapid bites. A bedside PLA2 activity test has potential utility for early case identification but may not be useful for excluding envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K. Isbister
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2298, Australia; (N.M.); (K.F.); (P.C.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-249211211
| | - Nandita Mirajkar
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2298, Australia; (N.M.); (K.F.); (P.C.V.)
| | - Kellie Fakes
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2298, Australia; (N.M.); (K.F.); (P.C.V.)
| | - Simon G. A. Brown
- Aeromedical and Retrieval Medicine, Ambulance Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia;
| | - Punnam Chander Veerati
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2298, Australia; (N.M.); (K.F.); (P.C.V.)
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Bedside Coagulation Tests in Diagnosing Venom-Induced Consumption Coagulopathy in Snakebite. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12090583. [PMID: 32927702 PMCID: PMC7551701 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12090583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom-induced consumption coagulopathy is the most important systemic effect of snake envenoming. Coagulation tests are helpful to accurately and promptly diagnose venom-induced consumption coagulopathy and administer antivenom, which is the only specific treatment available. However, bedside clotting tests play a major role in diagnosing coagulopathy in low-income settings, where the majority of snakebites occur. We conducted a literature search in MEDLINE® from 1946 to 30 November 2019, looking for research articles describing clinical studies on bedside coagulation tests in snakebite patients. Out of 442 articles identified, 147 articles describing bedside clotting assays were included in the review. Three main bedside clotting tests were identified, namely the Lee–White clotting test, 20-min whole blood clotting time and venous clotting time. Although the original Lee–White clotting test has never been validated for snake envenoming, a recently validated version has been used in some South American countries. The 20-min whole blood clotting time test is the most commonly used test in a wide range of settings and for taxonomically diverse snake species. Venous clotting time is almost exclusively used in Thailand. Many validation studies have methodological limitations, including small sample size, lack of case-authentication, the inclusion of a heterogeneous mix of snakebites and inappropriate uses of gold standard tests. The observation times for bedside clotting tests were arbitrary, without proper scientific justification. Future research needs to focus on improving the existing 20-min whole blood clotting test, and also on looking for alternative bedside coagulation tests which are cheap, reliable and quicker.
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Thongtonyong N, Chinthammitr Y. Sensitivity and specificity of 20-minute whole blood clotting test, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time tests in diagnosis of defibrination following Malayan pit viper envenoming. Toxicon 2020; 185:188-192. [PMID: 32712023 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Malayan pit vipers (Calloselasma rhodostoma) are major health hazard in Southern Thailand causing systemic bleeding by defibrination and thrombocytopenia. Twenty minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) is a useful and informative bedside test recommended by WHO for diagnosis of significant coagulopathy following snakebite envenoming since it to some extent predicts the need for anti-venom therapy. Prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) are standard clotting assays that are widely used for diagnosis of coagulopathy. The purpose of this study is to compare 20WBCT with the standard clotting assays (PT, INR, APTT, fibrinogen) in management of Malayan pit viper bitten-patients. We studied 296 victims prospectively during a 3-year period. In total, 115 (38.9%) cases showed a positive 20WBCT (un-clot) suggesting systemic envenomation. Thrombocytopenia (platelet count less than 100,000/μL), prolonged PT, prolonged APTT, INR ≥ 1.2, and fibrinogen level <100 mg/dl were found in 12.2%, 47.6%, 18.9%, 34.8% and 40.9%, respectively. Significant predictors for thrombocytopenia by multivariate analysis included systemic bleeding (p < 0.001), higher INR (p < 0.001), 20WBCT showing unclotted blood (p = 0.049), and longer bite-to-hospital time (p = 0.031). When a fibrinogen level below 100 mg/dl was determined as hypofibrinogenemic condition, INR had the highest area under ROC curve followed by 20WBCT and APTT, respectively, to identify such as hypofibrinogenemic condition. The diagnostic accuracy of 20WBCT and INR at or more than 1.155 were better than APTT at any cut-off points. INR >1.155 had a sensitivity of 78.5% and specificity of 90.3% while 20WBCT had sensitivity of 81.0% and specificity of 90.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Both 20WBCT and INR are useful to assess coagulation abnormality in Malayan pit viper-bitten patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yingyong Chinthammitr
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
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Sachetto ATA, Jensen JR, Santoro ML. Liver gene regulation of hemostasis-related factors is altered by experimental snake envenomation in mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008379. [PMID: 32479494 PMCID: PMC7289449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have addressed gene expression of hemostasis-related factors during acute thrombo-hemorrhagic diseases. Bites by the lanced-headed viper Bothrops jaracaca induce rapid hemostatic disturbances in victims, leading to systemic bleedings, thrombocytopenia and consumption coagulopathy. Although circulating levels of coagulation factors recover rapidly after administration of specific antivenom therapy, it is unclear if B. jararaca venom (BjV) upregulates the mRNA synthesis of hepatic hemostasis-related factors, or if the recovery occurs under basal conditions after the neutralization of venom components by antivenom. Thus, we aimed to investigate if BjV regulates gene expression of important hemostasis-related factors synthetized by the liver. On that account, Swiss mice were injected with saline or BjV (1.6 mg/kg b.w, s.c.), and after 3, 6 and 24 h blood samples and liver fragments were collected to analyze mRNA expression by real-time qPCR. Increased gene expression of fibrinogen chains, haptoglobin and STAT3 was observed during envenomation, particularly at 3 and 6 h. At 24h, mRNA levels of F10 were raised, while those of Serpinc1, Proc and Adamts13 were diminished. Surprisingly, F3 mRNA levels were steadily decreased at 3 h. Gene expression of Thpo, F7, F5 Tfpi, Mug1 was unaltered. mRNA levels of Vwf, P4hb, F8, F2, Plg, and Serpinf2 were minimally altered, but showed important associations with Nfkb1 gene expression. In conclusion, snakebite envenomation upregulates hepatic mRNA synthesis particularly of fibrinogen chains, and acute-phase markers. This response explains the fast recovery of fibrinogen levels after antivenom administration to patients bitten by B. jararaca snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Teresa Azevedo Sachetto
- Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Ricardo Jensen
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Larami Santoro
- Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Namal Rathnayaka RMMK, Ranathunga PEAN, Kularatne SAM. Venom-Induced Consumption Coagulopathy Following Hump-Nosed Pit Viper (Genus: Hypnale) Envenoming in Sri Lanka: Uncertain Efficacy of Fresh Frozen Plasma. Wilderness Environ Med 2020; 31:131-143. [PMID: 32336579 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hump-nosed pit vipers (Hypnale spp) cause the highest number of venomous snakebites in Sri Lanka. Bites commonly cause local envenoming leading to local pain, swelling, and necrosis of the site of the bite. Acute kidney injury is the most common systemic manifestation, and some patients develop venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC). Genus Hypnale comprises 3 species. Of them, H hypnale is found in Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats region of India. The other 2 (H nepa and H zara) are endemic species in Sri Lanka. METHODS This study included 500 patients with hump-nosed viper bites studied prospectively over 4.5 y starting June 2014. All patients were assessed and the data were collected by the principal investigator (primary data). A subgroup of patients who developed VICC is described. There were 2 groups, including proven (patients with the specimen of the snake) and probable (specimen of snake not available) bites. RESULTS Thirty (n=500; 6%) patients developed VICC; of them, 17 (3%) were proven cases, and 13 (2%) were probable cases. In both groups, 24 (80%) recovered, 2 (7%) progressed to chronic kidney disease, 1 (3%) died of severe hemostatic dysfunction, and 3 (10%) were lost to follow-up. Systemic bleeding was observed in 16 patients (53%), including hematuria (microscopic and gross) in 8 (27%) and venipuncture bleeding in 5 (17%). Eleven (37%) developed local bleeding at the site of the bite. Fresh frozen plasma was administered to 20 patients (67%), among whom only 11 (55%) experienced early correction of VICC. In both groups, 15 (50%) developed acute kidney injury, and 2 (7%) progressed to chronic kidney disease. Microangiopathic hemolysis was observed in 18 patients (60%) and thrombocytopenia in 16 (53%). Thrombotic microangiopathy was detected in 13 patients (43%), of whom 10 (33%) developed hemolytic uremic syndrome and 2 (7%) had thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Of patients with VICC in the proven group, 94% (n=16) was caused by H hypnale and 1 (6%) was caused by H zara. In the proven group, median international normalized ratio was 3.7 (interquartile range 1.6-5.0); in the probable group, it was 5.0 (interquartile range 2.1-5.4). CONCLUSIONS We found that 6% of patients develop hemostatic dysfunction after hump-nosed viper bites. However, which patients will develop coagulopathy or die of envenoming is unpredictable. Reliable and accessible treatments are unmet essential needs because antivenoms for these bites are currently not available in the country. Therapy with fresh frozen plasma has doubtful efficacy in early correction of VICC and needs further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M M K Namal Rathnayaka
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peredeniya, Sri Lanka; Intensive Care Unit/Anaesthesia, Teaching Hospital Ratnapura, Sri Lanka; Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics), University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
| | | | - S A M Kularatne
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peredeniya, Sri Lanka
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25
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Benjamin JM, Abo BN, Brandehoff N. Review Article: Snake Envenomation in Africa. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-020-00198-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Dsilva AA, Basheer A, Thomas K. Snake envenomation: is the 20 min whole blood clotting test (WBCT20) the optimum test for management? QJM 2019; 112:575-579. [PMID: 30918965 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcz077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 20 min whole blood clotting test (WBCT20) is a simple bedside test recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) to assess hemotoxic envenomation and guide administration of polyvalent anti-snake venom (ASV). However, reliability and validity of this test has not been well documented in literature. METHODS Sixty consecutive patients with history of snake bite were prospectively evaluated at a teaching hospital in India over 2 years. Envenomation was established by clinical and laboratory criteria. WBCT20 was done at 0, 4 and 12 h using standardized protocol. Prothrombin time (PT) with international normalized ratio (INR) was estimated at similar intervals to detect venom-induced consumption coagulopathy. Sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratios (LR) were determined for WBCT20 using envenomation criteria as gold standard. WBCT20 was compared with PT/INR at cutoff values of ≥1.4 and ≥1.2. Two observers performed test-retest correlation to determine inter-observer variability of WBCT20. RESULTS . UNLABELLED Seventeen of 60 patients had evidence of hemotoxic envenomation. Four patients had combined neurotoxicity and hemotoxicity. Sensitivity and specificity of WBCT20 were 94 and 76%; positive and negative LR were 3.9 and 0.08, respectively. No inter-observer variability was noted. CONCLUSIONS WBCT20 is a highly sensitive test with excellent reliability for detecting envenomation. However, the false positive rate in this study was 24%. Asymptomatic snake bite patients with a positive WBCT20 but no corresponding clinical signs of envenomation should be tested using PT/INR before receiving ASV to prevent unnecessary waste of anti-venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Dsilva
- From the Department of General Medicine, PIMS Hospital, Pondicherry
| | - A Basheer
- From the Department of General Medicine, PIMS Hospital, Pondicherry
| | - K Thomas
- From the Department of General Medicine, PIMS Hospital, Pondicherry
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27
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Thrombotic Microangiopathy, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, and Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Following Hump-nosed Pit Viper (Genus: Hypnale) Envenoming in Sri Lanka. Wilderness Environ Med 2019; 30:66-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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White J, Alfred S, Bates D, Mahmood MA, Warrell D, Cumming R, Thwin KT, Thein MM, Thant M, Naung ZM, Naing YH, San SSS, Nwe MT, Peh CA. Twelve month prospective study of snakebite in a major teaching hospital in Mandalay, Myanmar; Myanmar Snakebite Project (MSP). Toxicon X 2018; 1:100002. [PMID: 32831343 PMCID: PMC7286100 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2018.100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Myanmar Snakebite Project is an Australian government (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade) supported foreign aid project in collaboration with the Myanmar government with the aim of improving outcomes for snakebite patients in Myanmar. As part of the project a case record database was established to document prospective cases of snakebite presenting to Mandalay General Hospital, in Upper Myanmar. The study period was 12 months (1-2-2016 to 31-1-2017). Snake identity was based on a mixture of identified dead snakes brought with patients, doctor's clinical opinion and patient identification. 965 patients were enrolled during the 12 month period, of whom 948 were included for analysis. The male: female ratio was 1.58:1. Most cases involved bites to the lower limbs (82.5%) and adults involved in farm work, confirming snakebite as an occupational disease in this community. Motorised transport was by far the most common form of transport to health care and most patients sought care from the health system (87.7%), not traditional healers (11.5%) as their first point of contact. The officially promoted application of a pressure pad, bandage and immobilisation as first aid for snakebite was almost never used, while most patients used some form of tourniquet (92.0%). 85.4% of cases where a snake ID was listed were bitten by Russell's vipers. Russell's viper bites were responsible for all fatalities (9.8% of cases) and all cases of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). For all cases, clinical features included local swelling (76.5%), local pain (62.6%), AKI (59.8%), incoagulable blood (57.9%), regional lymphadenopathy (39.8%), nausea/vomiting (40.4%), thrombocytopenia (53.6%), abdominal pain (28.8%), shock (11.8%), secondary infection (8.6%), panhypopituitarism (2.1%). AKI required renal replacement therapy (RRT) in 23.9% of cases, all ascribed to Russell's viper bite. Green pit viper bites were the next most common cause of bites (7.6%) and were associated with incoagulable blood (29%) and occasionally shock (5%) and local necrosis (3%), and in one case AKI not requiring RRT. In contrast to Russell's viper bites, green pit viper bite was most likely to occur in the home (49%). Some green pit viper patients were treated with Russell's viper antivenom (15%), presumably because they had incoagulable blood, although this antivenom is not effective against green pit viper envenoming. For the entire patient group, antivenom was given in 80.5% of cases. The most common indications were presence of coagulopathy/non-clotting blood (59.8%), local swelling (47.4%), oliguria/anuria (19.8%), heavy proteinuria (19.4%). A febrile reaction to antivenom was reported in 47.9% of cases, while anaphylaxis, occurred in 7.9% of cases. Reports 12 month prospective observational study of snakebite patients at Mandalay General Hosp. Snakebite was an occupational disease of farm workers, tourniquets the most common first aid. Russell's viper (RV) responsible for most bites, causing coagulopathy, thrombocytopenia, AKI. Green pit viper bites were the next most common, potentially causing diagnostic confusion with RV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian White
- Toxinology Dept., Women's & Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, 5006, Australia
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Corresponding author. Toxinology Dept., Women's & Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, 5006, Australia.
| | - Sam Alfred
- Emergency Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - David Bates
- Toxinology Dept., Women's & Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, 5006, Australia
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | | | - David Warrell
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | | | - Myo Thant
- Myanmar Snakebite Project Mandalay Office, Myanmar
| | | | | | | | | | - Chen Au Peh
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
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29
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Isbister GK, Silva A. Addressing the global challenge of snake envenoming. Lancet 2018; 392:619-620. [PMID: 30017549 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)31328-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Waratah, NSW 2298, Australia.
| | - Anjana Silva
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
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Benjamin JM, Chippaux JP, Sambo BT, Massougbodji A. Delayed double reading of whole blood clotting test (WBCT) results at 20 and 30 minutes enhances diagnosis and treatment of viper envenomation. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:14. [PMID: 29796013 PMCID: PMC5956810 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The whole blood clotting test (WBCT) is a simple test of coagulation that is often used in the assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic monitoring of snakebite patients in sub-Saharan Africa. WBCT requires only a clean glass tube and several milliliters of venous blood and is ideal for use in poorly equipped health centers throughout the rural areas where 95% of snakebites occur. However, questions surrounding the accuracy and reliability of the test remain unanswered due to variations in testing conditions and a lack of comparative research with which to validate them. This is the first study to evaluate WBCT results at both 20-min (WBCT20) and 30-min (WBCT30) reading times in the same group of snakebite patients. Methods In order to define the best reading time, the authors compared the results of serial WBCT evaluation at both 20 and 30 min after collection in 23 patients treated for snake envenomation in Bembèrèkè, northern Benin. Results WBCT results were identical at both reading times in patients without coagulopathy or when coagulation was restored permanently following a single dose of antivenom. Out of 17 patients with coagulopathy, 14 showed discrepancies between WBCT20 and WBCT30 results in at least one pair of serial evaluations. These could be completely contradictory results (e.g. normal clot at WBCT20 and no clot at WBCT30) or a marked difference in the quality of the clot (e.g. no clotting activity at WBCT20 and an unstable partial clot at WBCT30). WBCT discrepancies were encountered most frequently in three situations: initial normalization of hemostasis following antivenom therapy, detection of a secondary resumption of coagulopathy, or final restoration of hemostasis after a secondary resumption had occurred. Conclusions This study suggests that the WBCT is robust and that a sequential reading should improve the diagnosis and monitoring of venom-induced coagulopathies. It also indicates the possibility of discrepancies in the sensitivity of WBCT20 and WBCT30 for detecting the resolution or reoccurrence of coagulopathy and identifies how these findings, if confirmed, may be used to increase the efficacy and efficiency of antivenom treatment in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Max Benjamin
- Center for the Study and Research of Malaria Associated with Pregnancy and Childhood (CERPAGE), 08 BP 841 Cotonou, Bénin.,2Whitman College, Department of Biology, Walla Walla, WA 99362 USA
| | - Jean-Philippe Chippaux
- 2Whitman College, Department of Biology, Walla Walla, WA 99362 USA.,3IRD UMR216, Mère et enfant face aux infections tropicales, 75006 Paris, France.,4PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Descartes, Faculté de Pharmacie, 75270 Paris, France
| | - Bio Tamou Sambo
- 5Département de chirurgie et spécialités, Faculté de Médecine, Université Parakou, Parakou, Bénin
| | - Achille Massougbodji
- Center for the Study and Research of Malaria Associated with Pregnancy and Childhood (CERPAGE), 08 BP 841 Cotonou, Bénin
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31
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de Brito Sousa JD, Sachett JAG, de Oliveira SS, Mendonça-da-Silva I, Marques HO, de Lacerda MVG, Fan HW, Monteiro WM. Accuracy of the Lee-White Clotting Time Performed in the Hospital Routine to Detect Coagulopathy in Bothrops atrox Envenomation. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2018; 98:1547-1551. [PMID: 29611503 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake envenomation is a major public health problem in Brazil. Systemic complications that may arise from snakebites are mainly related to coagulopathy. The Lee-White clotting time (LWCT) is a simple and inexpensive test and available even in remote health facilities. However, the diagnostic value of such test needs to be evaluated to accurately diagnose coagulopathy in the clinical practice. This study aimed to assess the reliability of the LWCT performed in hospital routine to diagnose venom-induced coagulopathy. We studied 186 patients admitted at the Tropical Medicine Foundation Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, with Bothrops envenomation diagnosis. At admission, blood samples were collected for performing LWCT and the concentration of fibrinogen. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, likelihood ratios, diagnostic odds ratio, and accuracy were calculated with 95% confidence intervals. From the total, 85.5% had hypofibrinogenemia. The sensitivity of the LWCT to the diagnosis of hypofibrinogenemia was 78.0% and the specificity 40.7%. The accuracy of the test was 72.6%, and patients with a prolonged LWCT had 2.4 higher odds of developing hypofibrinogenemia. In addition, the LWCT was also compared with venom antigen levels and systemic hemorrhage. The LWCT showed moderate sensitivity to detect consumption coagulopathy and constitutes a valuable tool for the diagnosis of Bothrops snake envenomation and indication of antivenom therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Diego de Brito Sousa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline Almeida Gonçalves Sachett
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Sâmella Silva de Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Iran Mendonça-da-Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | - Marcus Vinicius Guimarães de Lacerda
- Instituto de Pesquisas Leônidas e Maria Deane, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Manaus, Brazil.,Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | | | - Wuelton Marcelo Monteiro
- Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Carlos Borborema, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
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Weinstein SA, Everest E, Purdell-Lewis J, Harrison M, Tavender F, Alfred S, Marrack L, Davenport-Klunder C, Wearn N, White J. Neurotoxicity with persistent unilateral ophthalmoplegia from envenoming by a wild inland taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus, Elapidae) in remote outback South Australia. Toxicon 2017; 137:15-18. [PMID: 28694006 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A case of life threatening envenoming by a wild specimen of the inland taipan, Oxyuranus microlepidotus, is described. There have been 11 previously well-documented envenomings by O. microlepidotus, but only 2 were inflicted by wild snakes. Envenomed patients have presented predominantly with defibrinating coagulopathy and neurotoxicity. CASE REPORT The victim was seeking to observe members of an isolated population of this species and was envenomed while attempting to photograph an approximately 1.5 m specimen. He reported feeling "drowsiness" and blurred vision that progressed to ptosis; he later developed dysphagia and dysarthria. The patient was treated with 1 vial of polyvalent antivenom, which was later followed with an additional two vials of taipan monovalent. He was intubated during retrieval, and recovered after 3 days of intensive care. He had a right ophthalmoplegia that persisted for approximately 1 week post-envenoming. Despite a positive 20-min whole blood clotting test, defibrination coagulopathy was absent, and there was no myotoxicity, or acute kidney injury. DISCUSSION Physicians presented with a patient envenomed by O. microlepidotus should remain cognizant of the possible variability of medically important venom toxins in some populations of this species. Some patients seriously envenomed by this species may develop persistent cranial nerve palsies. When clinically indicated, prompt provision of adequate antivenom is the cornerstone of managing O. microlepidotus envenoming. Rapid application of pressure-bandage immobilization and efficient retrieval of victims envenomed in remote locales, preferably by medically well-equipped aircraft, probably improves the likelihood of a positive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Weinstein
- Toxinology Department, Women's and Children's Hospital, 72 King William Street, North Adelaide, South Australia, 5006, Australia; Department of Paediatrics and Reproductive Medicine, University of Adelaide School of Medicine, 30 Frome Street, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia.
| | - Evan Everest
- Intensive and Critical Care Unit, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia; MedSTAR Retrieval Service, South Australian Ambulance Service, 20 James Schofield Drive, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Jeremy Purdell-Lewis
- Royal Flying Doctor Service, Central Operations, 1 Tower Road, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Michael Harrison
- Royal Flying Doctor Service, Central Operations, 1 Tower Road, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Fiona Tavender
- MedSTAR Retrieval Service, South Australian Ambulance Service, 20 James Schofield Drive, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Sam Alfred
- Emergency Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, 5000, Australia
| | - Liz Marrack
- Royal Flying Doctor Service, Central Operations, 1 Tower Road, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Chris Davenport-Klunder
- Royal Flying Doctor Service, Central Operations, 1 Tower Road, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Neralie Wearn
- MedSTAR Retrieval Service, South Australian Ambulance Service, 20 James Schofield Drive, Adelaide Airport, South Australia, 5950, Australia
| | - Julian White
- Toxinology Department, Women's and Children's Hospital, 72 King William Street, North Adelaide, South Australia, 5006, Australia; Department of Paediatrics and Reproductive Medicine, University of Adelaide School of Medicine, 30 Frome Street, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
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