Publication: Snakebite Masquerading as Brain Death: A Case Report from Nepal
Date
2024
Authors
Balla, Pujan
Baidya, Smriti
Shahi, Kul Raj
Paudel, Khechar Nath
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University
Abstract
Abstract:
Neurotoxic envenomation from snake bites, particularly krait bites, can mimic brain death. A 17-year-old male was referred to our hospital intubated, presenting with clinical features consistent with brain death. However, the absence of a clear preceding event and his residence in a snakebite-endemic region raised suspicion of snakebite. Prompt administration of anti-snake venom led to significant recovery, and he was discharged without neurological deficits. This case underscores the need for clinicians to recognize neurotoxic snake bites as a potential differential diagnosis of brain death, particularly in resource-limited endemic areas where diagnostic capabilities may be restricted.
Description
Pujan Balla
Province Hospital, Surkhet
Author
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6793-2625
Smriti Baidya
Province Hospital, Surkhet
Author
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0404-9835
Kul Raj Shahi
Province Hospital, Surkhet
Author
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7908-0164
Khechar Nath Paudel
Province Hospital, Surkhet
Author
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-9982-7439
Keywords
Anti-snake venom, brain death, snakebite