[Validity of a test for diagnosis and monitoring of hemorrhagic syndrome after viper envenomation in sub-saharan Africa].
The purpose of this study was to validate a test for diagnosis and monitoring of hemorrhagic syndrome following viper envenomation in sub-Saharian Africa. A total of 276 patients treated at 7 health centers or hospitals in North Cameroon were included. Hemorrhage was observed in 144 patients (52.2%). Coagulation time was longer than 30 minutes in 196 patients (71%). Overall hemorrhage and/or prolonged coagulation time was noted in 223 patients (80.8%). Combination of these two findings was a reliable indicator for diagnosis and monitoring. Observation of one of these factors, i.e. hemorrhage or prolonged coagulation time, indicates immunotherapy using F(ab')2. This treatment should be continued until the indicator disappears and renewed in case of relapse.
Centres Pasteur du Cameroun. chippaux@niamey.orstom.ne
J P
JP
Chippaux
S
S
Amadi-Eddine
P
P
Fagot
D017954:Africa South of the Sahara; D001778:Blood Coagulation Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007140:Immunoglobulin Fab Fragments / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007167:Immunotherapy; D012909:Snake Bites / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D014757:Viper Venoms / Q000506:poisoning*
D007140:Immunoglobulin Fab Fragments; D014757:Viper Venoms
Validité d'un test de diagnostic et de surveillance du syndrome hémorragique lors des envenimations vipérines en Afrique sub-saharienne.