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Fatal non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis following viperine bite
1Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|June 9, 1998
Summary
Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a rare complication following viperine bites in humans. This case report details NBTE, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and multi-organ failure following a snakebite.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pathology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) typically affects patients with malignancy or damaged heart valves.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a known complication of viperine bites, but NBTE has not been previously reported in this context.
Observation:
- A young male presented with swelling, gangrene, and oliguria after a viperine bite.
- The patient experienced cerebral infarcts and acute renal failure, leading to death.
Findings:
- Post-mortem examination revealed NBTE of the aortic valve.
- Evidence of widespread embolic infarcts in the brain, spleen, and kidneys was found.
- Histological examination showed acute tubular necrosis and DIC in the brain.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, previously unreported complication of viperine envenomation.
- It suggests a link between snakebite-induced DIC and the development of NBTE.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathophysiology and incidence of NBTE in snakebite victims.