Blindness and scalp haematoma in a child following a snakebite
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Date
2015
Authors
Katibi, O. S.
Adepoju, F. G.
Olorunsola, B. O.
Ernest, S. K.
Monsudi, K. F.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Medicine, Makerere University
Abstract
Background: Snake envenomation is a major public health problem of the Savannah regions of West Africa. Ocular man ifestations of snakebites are rare with few reports documenting blindness as a complication.
Objective: To highlight an unusual manifestation of snake bites and its attendant problems
Methods: A report of scalp haematoma and blindness in a 10 year old child presenting 2 weeks after a snake bite (pre sumably carpet viper) is a rare manifestation. Local swelling, epistaxis, bilateral proptosis, exposure keratopathy and use of traditional eye medications were associated fndings. Anti-venom though administered late saved the child’s life but blindness could not be reversed.
Results: Ocular ultrasonography revealed layered retrobulbar collection in the left eye, presumably due to hemorrhage. The skull x-ray showed a soft tissue swelling and aspirate from scalp swelling was bloody. Cranial Computed Tomography (CT) scan done late detected no abnormalities.
Conclusion: Snakebite is associated with lifelong morbidity. Ocular manifestations must be treated as emergency. This case highlights the effect of ignorance and poverty in a setting of a common medical emergency leading to blindness and reduced quality of life