Ischemic brain infarcts and intracranial haemorrhages following Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) bite in Sri Lanka. (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Namal Rathnayaka, R.M.M.K.; Kularatne, S.A.M.; Kumarasinghe, K.D.M.; Ranaweera, Janaka; Nishanthi Ranathunga, P.E.A.
• Is Part Of: Toxicon. Volume 125(2017)
• Page Start: 70
• Page End: 73
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Snakebites -- Russell's viper -- Daboia russelii -- Intracranial haemorrhage -- Subarachnoid haemorrhage -- Brain infarcts -- Sri Lanka -- Antivenom serum; Toxins -- Periodicals; Venom -- Periodicals; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.11.253
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0041-0101

Abstract

Abstract: Snakebite is an important medical problem in Sri Lanka. Of the deadly venomous snakes, Russell's viper ( Daboia russelii ) is widely distributed and responsible for most of the fatalities of snakebite in the country. It is not uncommon to see atypical manifestations in Russell's viper bite. We report the events of intracranial haemorrhages and multiple ischemic brain infarcts following Russell's viper ( Daboia russelii ) bite of a previously healthy 43-years-old male who succumbed to envenoming. Highlights: A fatal case of Russell's viper ( Daboia russelii ) bite is described. Patient's history, examination, investigations, management and autopsy findings are noted. Concurrence of intracranial haemorrhage and ischemic brain infarcts is the key feature. Clinical case that highlights the complex nature of Daboia russelii venom.