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Published on: May 28, 2019
Cerastes cerastes snakebite complicated by coagulopathy and cardiotoxicity with electrocardiographic changes
Almurtada Razok1, Abdullah Shams1, Zohaib Yousaf2
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
Insights
A desert horned viper (Cerastes cerastes) bite in Qatar caused severe coagulopathy and cardiotoxicity. This case highlights the potential dangers of snakebites in the region.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Cardiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Snakebites are a significant global health concern with diverse clinical outcomes.
- The specific envenomation profile of Cerastes cerastes can lead to severe systemic effects.
Observation:
- A patient in Qatar experienced a snakebite from Cerastes cerastes (desert horned viper).
- The clinical course was complicated by consumptive coagulopathy and cardiotoxicity.
Findings:
- The patient presented with significant bleeding abnormalities due to coagulopathy.
- Electrocardiographic changes indicated cardiotoxicity following the envenomation.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented Cerastes cerastes envenomation in Qatar.
- It underscores the need for increased awareness and preparedness for managing venomous snakebites in the region.
Abstract:
Snakebites occur worldwide with varying frequency. Outcomes associated with snakebite are varied and depend on the type of snake and the general health of the patient. We report a case of snakebite by Cerastes cerastes or desert horned viper. Consumptive coagulopathy and cardiotoxicity with electrocardiographic changes complicated the clinical course of the patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case in the state of Qatar.
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