Role of thromboelastography in the management of snake bite: A case report from India

In the absence of a specific laboratory test of envenomation, there is a need for an alternative mechanism for the early recognition of envenomation following hematotoxic snake-bite in tropical countries. Abnormalities of clotting are commonly associated with hematotoxic snake bite either due to systemic envenomation or due to the release of an inappropriate tourniquet applied as 'first-aid' often by the rural people before presentation to the hospital. Thromboelastography (TEG) has been used to monitor the coagulation abnormalities in various clinical scenarios. Here we narrate our experience where regular monitoring of hemostasis by TEG had helped us to successfully manage a case of hematotoxic snake-bite in a 45 year old male patient from rural India.