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Copperhead envenomations in the Carolinas.
Alix Thorson1, Eric J Lavonas, Anna M Rouse
1Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28232-2861, USA
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|March 21, 2003
Summary
Copperhead bites usually cause mild to moderate local effects, with rare systemic issues. Prolonged limb dysfunction can occur after these venomous snakebites.
Area of Science:
- Herpetology
- Toxicology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Copperhead (Akistrodon contortrix) envenomations are common in the Carolinas.
- Clinical manifestations and treatment protocols for copperhead bites are not well-documented.
Observation:
- A review of 178 copperhead exposures reported to a regional poison center between 1997 and 2000.
- Data included patient demographics, bite location, envenomation severity, symptoms, and treatment.
Findings:
- Most copperhead bites resulted in mild (48%) to moderate (39%) envenomation, primarily causing local effects like pain (93%) and swelling (94%).
- Severe systemic manifestations, such as coagulopathy (11/37 patients) and bleeding (2 patients), were infrequent.
- While most patients recovered, 18 reported prolonged limb dysfunction lasting up to 365 days.
Implications:
- Copperhead bites predominantly cause localized tissue damage rather than severe systemic toxicity.
- Healthcare providers should anticipate potential for prolonged limb dysfunction and manage symptoms accordingly.
- Further research into optimal treatment strategies for copperhead envenomations is warranted.