title: [Snake bites accidents in Yopal and Leticia, Colombia, 1996-1997].
abstract: Snakebites produce notable morbidity and mortality in the Amazonian and Orinocan regions of Colombia. A review was undertaken of 56 snakebite cases sent to hospitals in Leticia (Amazonas) and Yopal (Casanare) between September 1996 and June 1997. Of the total, 57% of the bites occurred in Leticia, 54% in men. The 14 to 44 year-old age group was most compromised (41%). Most encounters occurred in forests and open fields between 17:00 and 18:00 hours (57%). Nearly all bites were located on legs and feet (82%). One death occurred in Yopal; 3 fasciotomies and 2 amputations were performed. Snakebite incidence occurred with highest probability during evening hours. Although antibiotics are in general use, minor infections (16%) were frequent.
authors.affiliation: Unidad de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, D.C., Colombia. danielpinedar@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Pineda
authors.forename: Kemel
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ghotme
authors.forename: María Elvira
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Aldeco
authors.forename: Pablo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Montoya
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000818:Animals; D000997:Antivenins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017837:Bothrops; D003105:Colombia / Q000453:epidemiology; D003435:Crotalid Venoms / Q000506:poisoning; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012424:Rural Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017678:Sex Distribution; D012909:Snake Bites / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D000997:Antivenins; D003435:Crotalid Venoms