[Dog bites, a current problem in our environment].

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Dermatology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Dog bites are a frequent cause of pediatric emergency department visits.
• While rarely fatal, dog bites can result in significant aesthetic consequences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the characteristics and impact of dog bites in a pediatric population.
• To identify common complications and sequelae from dog bites.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 256 pediatric patients treated for dog bites between 2013-2018.
• Analysis of demographic data, bite location, dog-patient relationship, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• The majority of bites (59.8%) were from familiar dogs, with head and neck (94.1%) being the most frequent location.
• Wound infection occurred in 2%, and 7.8% required hospital admission.
• Aesthetic sequelae were noted in 3.9% of cases, with 7 requiring corrective surgery.

Conclusions:

• Dog bites, particularly from familiar dogs, are a significant pediatric concern.
• Facial aesthetic sequelae are a common indication for surgical intervention.
• Implementing preventive measures in home guidelines is recommended to reduce bite incidence.