Retrospective study reveals persistent coagulopathy in pit viper envenomations despite antivenom administration, highlighting the need for serial coagulation monitoring.
Effects of Crotalinae envenomation vary by geographical areas and research into coagulopathy and effects of antivenom are needed to optimize management. This was a single-center retrospective review with testing on presentation and 4 h after; antivenom administration was noted and data analyzed overall and comparing envenomations. One hundred and nineteen snakebites evaluated with 59 identified as Crotalinae and half receiving antivenom. PT/aPTT was elevated in 20% of water moccasin/copperhead and 21% of rattlesnake bites. DIC-like syndrome occurred in 8% water moccasin/copperhead and 6% rattlesnake bites. Antivenom did not seem to correct PT or aPTT at 4 h follow-up in most cases. Thrombotic microangiopathy was not seen. Coagulopathy was prevalent affecting one in five patients in this cohort and does seem to persist at short interval follow-up, even in those receiving antivenom. We support guidelines recommending clinical monitoring and serial coagulation profiles in such cases. Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis 30:000 - 000 Copyright © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Maharaj et al. (2022) studied this question.
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