Arabian Levantine viper bite induces thrombocytopenia - a case report

Snakebites have been reported to induce hematological complications. Thrombocytopenia usually occurs secondary to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and coagulopathy induced by the snake bite. However, thrombocytopenia can develop after the snake bite, even in the absence of significant coagulopathy. We reported the case of a 36-year-old Jordanian male patient who was bitten by Arabian Macrovipera Lebetina Obtusa (Levantine viper), which developed venom-induced severe thrombocytopenia without coagulopathy. A progressive drop in platelet count was observed during his admission. His condition improved after anti-venom therapy, and he was discharged after 4 weeks of treatment for a full recovery. This case supports that snake venom can produce severe thrombocytopenia without significant coagulopathy, which can be treated successfully with anti-venom and the best supportive care.