Successful Management of Cardiotoxic Manifestation following Krait Snake Bite in a Child: A Case Report

Krait (Bungarus) envenomation is typically associated with neurotoxic symptoms, while isolated cardiotoxicity without neurological or haemotoxic features is exceptionally rare. This report describes the case of a nine-year-old child who presented with cardiorespiratory symptoms following a krait snakebite. Notably, the child exhibited no neurological deficits, coagulopathy, or systemic envenomation markers typically associated with krait bites. The clinical presentation was dominated exclusively by cardiotoxic manifestations, including cardiac rhythm abnormalities and respiratory distress. Timely administration of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) resulted in the complete resolution of symptoms, underscoring the potential efficacy of ASV even in cases of isolated cardiotoxicity. This case highlights the importance of considering atypical presentations in snakebite cases, particularly in paediatric patients, where initial symptoms may mimic primary cardiac or respiratory conditions. Early recognition and intervention, including appropriate ASV administration, play a crucial role in preventing potential morbidity and mortality. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first documented paediatric case of isolated cardiotoxicity following krait envenomation that was successfully managed with ASV therapy. This case adds to the growing body of literature emphasising the spectrum of krait envenomation presentations and reinforces the need for maintaining a high index of suspicion for snakebites in endemic areas, even when classical neurotoxic features are absent.