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Published on: October 6, 2023
Recurrent coagulopathy with delayed significant bleeding after crotaline envenomation
Nicole F O'Brien1, Megan C DeMott, Jeffrey R Suchard
1Department of Critical Care, Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, CA 32123, USA.
Delayed bleeding can occur after Crotaline envenomation treatment with Crotalidae polyvalent immune Fab (CroFab). Close monitoring for coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia recurrence is crucial to prevent serious bleeding events.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Crotaline envenomation presents a significant medical challenge, often requiring prompt administration of antivenom.
- Crotalidae polyvalent immune Fab (CroFab) is a widely used antivenom for pit viper bites.
Observation:
- Recurrent coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia have been observed following CroFab treatment.
- Significant spontaneous bleeding, despite these hematological abnormalities, has not been previously reported.
Findings:
- The relatively short half-life of CroFab compared to older antivenoms may contribute to the recurrence of venom effects.
- Patients treated with CroFab require vigilant monitoring for the potential re-emergence of coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia.
Implications:
- Retreatment with CroFab should be considered if coagulopathy or thrombocytopenia recurs post-initial treatment.
- This approach aims to mitigate the risk of severe bleeding complications in patients with Crotaline envenomation.
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