Nucleotidase as a Clinical Prognostic Marker in Snakebites: A Prospective Study

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Toxicology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Snakebite envenomation is a significant global health concern with considerable mortality and morbidity.
• Snake venom contains enzymes impacting physiological functions, but the role of serum 5 -nucleotidase in snakebite severity is under-researched.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure serum 5 -nucleotidase levels in snakebite patients.
• To explore the correlation between 5 -nucleotidase levels and envenomation severity.
• To evaluate 5 -nucleotidase as a predictor of patient prognosis in snakebite cases.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 82 snakebite patients.
• Serum 5 -nucleotidase levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
• Clinical severity was assessed using the snakebite severity score (SSS); statistical analyses correlated 5 -nucleotidase levels with SSS and complications.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation was found between serum 5 -nucleotidase levels and SSS at both 0 hours (r=0.55, p<0.001) and 24 hours (r=0.61, p<0.001).
• The study included 82 patients, with 71.9% males; most bites occurred during the day (62.2%) and on lower limbs (83%).
• High recovery rate observed: 93.9% discharged, 3.7% deceased, 2.4% lost to follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Serum 5 -nucleotidase is a valuable biomarker for assessing snakebite envenomation severity.
• The strong correlation with clinical severity scores enhances its utility in predicting patient outcomes.
• Incorporating 5 -nucleotidase measurements alongside clinical assessments can improve snakebite prognostication and management.