Management of snake-bite in rural Maharashtra: a 10-year experience

A high incidence of snake-bite envenomation has been reported from Marathwada, Maharashtra. This study analysed the pattern of snake-bites and their management in a rural area of India over a 10-year period.

A total of 633 patients with snake-bite admitted to the Rural Community Centre and Punde Hospital in Mukhed taluka, Nanded district (Marathwada) of Maharashtra, between 1992 and 2001, were analysed retrospectively. The local and systemic manifestations of snake-bite, response to antisnake venom, atropine and neostigmine, the treatment of complications and the outcome were analysed.

Of the 633 patients, 427 (67.5%) had been bitten by poisonous snakes and 206 (32.5%) by non-poisonous snakes. The majority of snake-bites (68.9%) occurred between May and November. Those affected were mainly farmers (228 [36%]), students (191 [30.2%]) and housewives (175 [27.6%]). Of the 427 envenomed by poisonous snakes, 274 (64.2%) were by Echis carinatus (saw-scaled viper), 71 (16.6%) by cobra, 42 (9.8%) by krait and 40 (9.4%) by Russell viper. The requirement of antisnake venom for treating neurotoxic envenomation was 40-320 ml and for Echiscarinatus and Russell viper bites it was 20-250 ml. Among those envenomed by poisonous snakes, the mortality was 4.7% (n=20).

Snake-bite is a common life-threatening emergency in the study area. We observed an occupational risk and a seasonal incidence of snake-bite. Knowledge of the varied clinical manifestations of snake-bite are important for effective management. Ready availability and appropriate use of antisnake venom, close monitoring of patients, institution of ventilatory support and early referral to a larger hospital when required help in reducing the mortality. Most patients with snake-bites can be successfully managed even in small rural hospitals with limited facilities.