A randomised controlled trial of two infusion rates to decrease reactions to antivenom.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Snake envenoming is a major clinical problem in Sri Lanka, with an estimated 40,000 bites annually. Antivenom is only available from India and there is a high rate of systemic hypersensitivity reactions. This study aimed to investigate whether the rate of infusion of antivenom reduced the frequency of severe systemic hypersensitivity reactions.

Methods and findings

This was a randomized comparison trial of two infusion rates of antivenom for treatment of non-pregnant adult patients (>14 y) with snake envenoming in Sri Lanka. Snake identification was by patient or hospital examination of dead snakes when available and confirmed by enzyme-immunoassay for Russell's viper envenoming. Patients were blindly allocated in a 11 randomisation schedule to receive antivenom e

SUBMITTER: Isbister GK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3377702 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature