Clinico-epidemiological profile of snake bite in children in a tertiary care centre: a hospital based study

Abstract

Background: Snake bite remains major public health problem worldwide, particularly in rural areas with unexpected morbidity and mortality. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinico-epidemiological profile and complications of snake bite in children at our institute.Methods: This was a retrospective case record based study with records between January 2011 and December 2016 studied. The clinico-epidemiological features and complications were recorded and analysed.Results: Total of 242 snake bite children were admitted during the study period out of 17512 admissions constituting to 1.38% of admissions. There was male predominance with ratio of 2:1. About 43% of children were in the age group of 7-12 years, followed by 13-18 years. About 43% of bites occurred between March and June months. About 2/3rd of cases were from rural areas, 50% of cases were bitten outdoor. About 3/4th of cases had bite in the lower extremity. In this study 3/4th of children presented to hospital within 6 hours of bite. The major symptoms were pain and swelling at the site of bite. 10% of children had neurotoxic symptoms. Major complications noted were compartment syndrome, DIC, AKI and respiratory paralysis. Four (1.7%) children died, 3 had DIC and 1 died due to uremic encephalopathy.Conclusions: Snake bite remains a major health problem in children causing significant morbidity and mortality. Children are particularly vulnerable because of their active and explorative nature and they also spend considerable time outdoors particularly male children. Simple preventive measures to be taken and people should be educated about avoiding traditional first aid methods and early presentation to hospital.