EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF SNAKEBITE ACCIDENTS IN A METROPOLITAN AREA OF NORTHEAST BRAZIL

Authors

  • Polianna L.M.M. Albuquerque Federal University of Ceara; School of Medicine
  • Geraldo B. Silva Junior University of Fortaleza; Health Sciences Center; School of Medicine
  • Camilla N. Jacinto Federal University of Ceara; School of Medicine
  • Caroline B. Lima Federal University of Ceara; School of Medicine
  • Juliana B. Lima Hospital Geral Dr Waldemar de Alcantara; Division of Internal Medicine
  • Maria do Socorro B. Veras Instituto Dr Jose Frota; Toxicological Assistance Center
  • Elizabeth F. Daher Federal University of Ceara; School of Medicine

Abstract

SUMMARY The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of snakebite accidents reported by the toxicological assistance center in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Database information on snakebite accidents was analyzed regarding the period from January 2003 to December 2011. A total of 1063 cases were found. The accidents occurred during the rainy months (March, April and May), in urban areas (52.3%), affecting individuals younger than 50 years and predominantly among males (70.7%). The lower limbs were the most frequently affected body area (33.7%). Most accidents involved non-venomous snakes (76.1%). The genus Bothrops was the main one involved in venomous accidents (83%). It is expected that this study can be used as the substrate to improve healthcare surveillance and implementing better measures for the treatment of this population.

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Published

2013-09-01

Issue

Vol. 55 No. 5 (2013)

Section

Animal Envenomation

How to Cite

Albuquerque, P. L., Silva Junior, G. B., Jacinto, C. N., Lima, C. B., Lima, J. B., Veras, M. do S. B., & Daher, E. F. (2013). EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF SNAKEBITE ACCIDENTS IN A METROPOLITAN AREA OF NORTHEAST BRAZIL . Revista Do Instituto De Medicina Tropical De São Paulo, 55(5), 347-351. https://revistas.usp.br/rimtsp/article/view/78669