Clinical study of 22 viper bite cases at our hospital

We evaluated the clinical course, laboratory results and treatment of 22 cases of viper bites that were treated at our hospital over a 7-year period. In six of eight cases that demonstrated an increase in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels, it was difcult to predict the severity or prognosis from the value of CPK at the rst visit because it peaked 24 hours after the bite. Although freeze-dried Mamushi Anti-venom (Equine) is considered effective in reducing the severity of the effects of viper venom, anaphylactic shock and serum sickness after its administration are problems. We pre-administered steroid drugs and used freeze-dried Mamushi Anti-venom (Equine) in 21 of the 22 cases. There were no side effects in any of them. Delay in the administration of freeze-dried Mamushi Anti-venom (Equine) reduces its efcacy against the venom; hence, the anti-venom should be given as early as possible after the bite to minimize the effects of the venom.