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[Suppurative coxitis after a viper bite--case report].
Marinko Erceg1, Boris Luksić, Nikola Bradarić
1Odjel za ortopediju Klinicke bolnice Split Krizine, Soltanska 1 21000 Split, Hrvatska.
Summary
A rare case of septic coxitis (hip joint infection) occurred on the opposite side of a rhinoceros viper bite. Delayed diagnosis led to severe hip complications, highlighting the need for prompt recognition of such infections.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Rhinoceros viper bites can lead to severe local and systemic complications.
- Prompt recognition and management of snakebite-related infections are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old woman developed septic coxitis in her right hip 30 days after a rhinoceros viper bite on her left lower leg.
- Initial symptoms included fever, hip pain, and suppurative secretion at the bite site, initially treated empirically with antibiotics.
Findings:
- The patient's condition worsened despite home treatment, leading to a delayed diagnosis of septic coxitis.
- Surgical intervention was required, but irreparable consequences in the right hip developed due to the delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Implications:
- This case represents the first reported instance of contralateral septic coxitis following a snakebite.
- Highlights the potential for hematogenous spread of infection from a snakebite site to distant joints.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering disseminated infection in patients with worsening symptoms after snakebites, even on the contralateral side.