Abstract
BACKGROUND: Patients who have been bitten by an exotic venomous snake are at risk of severe morbidity and a fatal outcome following an incorrect risk-assessment. Treatment with an antivenom can be necessary and can turn out to be lifesaving. In the Netherlands there are only a few cases of bites from exotic venomous snakes each year.
CASE DESCRIPTION: A 28-year-old man presented at the emergency department (ED) after having been bitten by a monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia). Here he developed severe neurotoxicity with respiratory insufficiency requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation. The patient was successfully treated with an antivenom.
CONCLUSION: An exotic snakebite victim is always a medical emergency. With early presentation at the ED, proper assessment, treatment and the availability of antivenom from the National Serum Depot, this will not necessarily cause insurmountable problems.
| Translated title of the contribution | Bitten by an exotic venomous snake |
|---|---|
| Original language | Dutch |
| Article number | D822 |
| Journal | Nederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde |
| Volume | 161 |
| Issue number | 22 |
| Publication status | Published - 2017 |