Features of centipede bites in Taiwan

In order to define characteristics that would help differentiate a centipede bite from a viper bite, we designed a prospective study using the data collection system of a Poison Control Center. The clinical goal is to rapidly distinguish envenomations for which antitoxin may be indicated (viper) from those for which palliative care only is appropriate (centipede). During a year period, 31 cases, including two cases receiving double bites in each event, were reported. Centipede lengths were estimated to range from 3 to 20 cm. Ninety-two per cent of the bite marks were pointed in shape. A local reaction developed at the bitten site, but usually remaining localized to a 10 x 10 cm area of involvement. The length of the biting animal, the bite mark characteristics, the presence of haemorrhagic vesicles, the wound size and the progression of local reactions are useful in the rapid clinical differentiation between centipede bites and viper bites.