Thrombotic Microangiopathy Following Arabian Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis coloratus) Bite: Case Report

Am J Case Rep. 2020 Apr 15:21:e922000. doi: 10.12659/AJCR.922000.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Consumption coagulopathy post envenomation is one the most common complications after a snakebite. It occurs secondary to activation of a coagulation cascade by snake venom and could be followed by a syndrome consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy. The efficacy of plasma exchange for the treatment of thrombotic microangiopathy post envenomation is a matter of debate. CASE REPORT We reported the case of a 50-year-old male who had Arabian saw-scaled viper envenomation. He developed venom induced coagulopathy that improved within 24 hours of antivenom therapy. He subsequently developed micro-angiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and renal failure that was consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy. The patient was treated by plasma exchange and hemodialysis. He made a full recovery and was discharged after 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS This case report supports plasmapheresis as an option for management of a patient who develops thrombotic microangiopathy secondary to snake bite, especially those who do not improve with antivenom and supportive therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plasma Exchange
  • Renal Dialysis
  • Snake Bites / complications*
  • Thrombotic Microangiopathies / diagnosis*
  • Thrombotic Microangiopathies / therapy
  • Viper Venoms / poisoning
  • Viperidae

Substances

  • Viper Venoms