[Pulmonary embolism in the context of severe envenomation by a Moroccan viper]

Bull Soc Pathol Exot. 2012 Aug;105(3):162-5. doi: 10.1007/s13149-012-0248-7. Epub 2012 Jun 28.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Heparin, which was widely used thirty years ago for the treatment of viper envenomations, is now contra-indicated during the acute phase, which is at risk for hemorrhage and death. We report a case of pulmonary embolism, a rare situation in the context of viper envenomation. By means of this case report, we want to discuss the pathophysiological links between envenomation and thromboembolic disease, and on the other hand, the potential heparin usefulness, not during the acute, hemorrhagic phase, but as a prophylactic treatment when hemorrhagic risk has been replaced by an inflammatory syndrome, with increased fibrinogen and platelets which are then prothrombotic factors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antivenins / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Morocco
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / therapy
  • Snake Bites / complications*
  • Snake Bites / diagnosis
  • Snake Bites / therapy
  • Viper Venoms / immunology
  • Viperidae / immunology
  • Viperidae / physiology

Substances

  • Antivenins
  • Viper Venoms