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Retrospective prevalence of snakebites from Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) (1999-2003)
1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. jamaiah@ummc.edu.my
Insights
This study analyzed 126 snakebite cases in Kuala Lumpur from 1999-2003. Most victims were young Malaysian males, with lower limb bites being most common, and no fatalities reported.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Epidemiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Snakebites pose a significant public health concern globally.
- Understanding local snakebite epidemiology is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of snakebite cases at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
- To identify common snake species, clinical presentations, and treatment patterns for snakebites in the region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design analyzing hospital records.
- Data collected over a five-year period (1999-2003) from Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
- Inclusion criteria: all recorded snakebite cases.
Main Results:
- A total of 126 snakebite cases were recorded, with the highest incidence in 2001.
- The majority of cases involved males aged 11-30 years, with bites predominantly on lower limbs.
- Cobra bites were most frequent among identified species; pain and swelling were the primary clinical presentations. No fatal cases were observed.
Conclusions:
- Snakebites in Kuala Lumpur primarily affect young males, with common presentations of pain and swelling.
- Prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment, including antivenom when indicated, are essential for managing snakebite cases.
- Further research on snake identification and species-specific envenomation is recommended.
Abstract:
A hospital based retrospective study of the prevalence of snakebite cases at Hospital Kuala Lumpur was carried out over a five-year period from 1999 to 2003. A total of 126 snakebite cases were recorded. The highest admission for snakebites was recorded in 2001 (29 cases). The majority of cases were admitted for three days or less (79%). Most of the snakebite cases were reported in the 11-30 years age group (52%). The male:female ratio was 3:1. The majority of cases were Malaysians (80%, 101 cases). Of the non-Malaysians, Indonesians constituted the most (56%, 14 cases). Bites occurred most commonly on the lower limbs (49%), followed by upper limbs (45%) and on other parts of the body (6%). No fatal cases were detected and complications were scarce. In 60% (70 cases) the snake could not be identified. Of the four species of snakes that were identified, cobra (both suspected and confirmed) constituted the largest group (25%), followed by viper (10%), python (4%) and sea snake (1%). The most common clinical presentations were pain and swelling, 92% (116 cases). All patients were put on snakebite charts and their vital signs were monitored. Of the snakebite cases, 48% (61 cases) were treated with cloxacillin and 25% (32 cases) were given polyvalent snake antivenom.
