[Transient arterial hypertension following an adder bite in a six six-year-old boy]

A case of arterial hypertension following an adder bite (Vipera Berus) in a six year-old boy is presented. Initially he had gross local symptoms and mild systemic symptoms, but was not treated with viper venom antiserum. Ten days after the initial admittance he developed symptoms of high blood pressure. Microscopic haematuria was found, and renal function was mildly impaired. It was concluded that the adder bite had caused the temporary rise in arterial blood pressure and renal dysfunction. Treatment with viper venom antiserum is recommended if local symptoms progress to involve the trunk or if systemic symptoms evolve.