Citation

Pineda D, Ghotme K, Aldeco ME, Montoya P. Biomedica 2002; 22(1): 14-21.

Vernacular Title

Accidentes ofidicos en Yopal y Leticia, Colombia, 1996-1997.

Affiliation

Unidad de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia. danielpinedar@hotmail.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Instituto Nacional de Salud (Colombia))

DOI

unavailable

PMID

11957359

Abstract

Snakebites produce notable morbidity and mortality in the Amazonian and Orinocan regions of Colombia. A review was undertaken of 56 snakebite cases sent to hospitals in Leticia (Amazonas) and Yopal (Casanare) between September 1996 and June 1997. Of the total, 57% of the bites occurred in Leticia, 54% in men. The 14 to 44 year-old age group was most compromised (41%). Most encounters occurred in forests and open fields between 17:00 and 18:00 hours (57%). Nearly all bites were located on legs and feet (82%). One death occurred in Yopal; 3 fasciotomies and 2 amputations were performed. Snakebite incidence occurred with highest probability during evening hours. Although antibiotics are in general use, minor infections (16%) were frequent.

Language: es