Necrosis and amputation following the bite of the Bibron's stiletto snake () with a concise review of current literature
Pallett, Scott Jc Handford, Charles Wong, Stephanie My West, Collin Moore, Luke Sp
Pallett, Scott Jc
Handford, Charles
Wong, Stephanie My
West, Collin
Moore, Luke Sp
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2021-09-07
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Abstract
Atractaspis bibronii are highly specialised snakes found across Southern Africa. Adapted for subterranean hunting of prey, snakes of the genus Atractaspis demonstrate a unique biting mechanism, with an ability to deliver venom via a single fang, protruded over an almost closed mouth in a side-to-side striking pattern. It is not possible to handle these snakes safely. Atractaspididae can be mistaken for medically insignificant snakes and often occur in remote areas that may lead to delayed or reduced presentation to suitable care facilities. We here report a case of an A. bibronii envenomation in remote Southern Africa to the right ring finger from a single fang with significant complication. Medical, and subsequently, surgical management of a progression from discolouration at the bite site, to spreading oedema, blistering, local necrosis and secondary infection required amputation of the digit.
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Pallett SJ, Handford C, Wong SM, West C, Moore LS. Necrosis and amputation following the bite of the Bibron's stiletto snake (Atractaspis bibronii) with a concise review of current literature. Trop Doct. 2022 Jan;52(1):142-146. doi: 10.1177/00494755211039638. Epub 2021 Sep 7
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