Clinical Characteristics and Analysis of Risk Factors Associated with Rhabdomyolysis in Snakebite Victims

Objective: To enhance the understanding of rhabdomyolysis (RM) caused by snakebites and to promptly identify and intervene in the risk factors associated with RM.

Methods: A retrospective analysis involving 209 snakebite victims who visited our hospital for snakebite cases was conducted. Among these, 43 were related to RM, while 166 did not exhibit RM (NRM). The clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognostic outcomes of both groups were statistically analyzed, with the aim of interpreting the risk factors associated with snakebites concurrent with RM through logistic regression analysis.

Results: Snakebite incidents commonly manifest during the summer and autumn seasons, predominantly affecting middle-aged and elderly populations, with injuries mostly occurring in the limbs. Creatine kinase (CK), CK isoenzyme MB, and lactate dehydrogenase indicators exhibited significantly elevated levels in the RM group compared to the NRM group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the RM Group displayed heightened susceptibility to complications such as osteofascial compartment syndrome, multiple organ dysfunction (MODS), acute kidney injury, etc. (P < 0.05). Debridement and blood purification procedures were more frequently administered to the RM group in comparison to the NRM group (P < 0.05). Notably, visitation beyond 6 hours post-bite and hemoglobin levels below 90 mg/dl emerged as independent risk factors for those with RM following snakebites, while female gender and albumin levels >40 g/L were identified as protective factors against such occurrences.

Conclusion: Snakebite victims with RM have more severe clinical conditions, necessitating prolonged treatment duration, and exhibit heightened mortality rates in comparison to those without RM.