We describe 5 cases of envenomation and complications related to saw scaled viper (Echis carinatus) bites from the Western Ghats region of Karnataka over a period of 5 years (December 2019-May 2023). Although the smallest member of the Big Four, Saw Scaled viper envenomation is associated with significant morbidity. In our region, envenomation appears to be rare. The careful review of all these cases has suggested VICC with one patient having persistent coagulopathy despite adequate ASV administration, and three patients developing anaphylaxis. It needs to be brought to notice that the complications due to envenoming run high, despite timely administration of ASV. Through these cases, we want to contribute evidence suggesting variable efficacy of Indian polyvalent ASV for Echis carinatus bites and the need for updating protocols for the same.
Keywords: Echis carinatus, Saw-scaled viper, Acute kidney injury, anti-snake venom, Snakebite, Venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy
Author Biographies
Vrinda Lath, aDepartment of Emergency Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
bCentre for Wilderness Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
Freston Sirur, aDepartment of Emergency Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
bCentre for Wilderness Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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