Rattlesnake bite complications in 19 children

Area of Science:

• Herpetology
• Toxicology
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Background:

• The Western diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) is a significant cause of snakebite envenomation in Sonora, Mexico.
• Pediatric snakebite cases present unique challenges due to physiological differences and potential for severe envenomation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of pediatric patients envenomated by Western diamondback rattlesnakes.
• To identify risk factors and common complications associated with Crotalus atrox bites in children.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 19 children treated for Western diamondback rattlesnake bites in Sonora, Mexico.
• Data collection included patient demographics, bite location, clinical signs and symptoms, treatment protocols, and complications.

Main Results:

• Most bites occurred in rural areas during summer, affecting lower extremities of children aged 1-15 years.
• Common symptoms included pain, edema, ecchymosis, bleeding, necrosis, epistaxis, hematuria, and vomiting.
• Complications involved hemolysis, local necrosis, coagulation disorders, and acute renal failure, with one fatality from disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Conclusions:

• Western diamondback rattlesnake envenomation in children can lead to severe local and systemic effects.
• Prompt and comprehensive medical management, including antivenom, is crucial for improving outcomes and preventing fatalities.