Epidemiological Aspects and Management of Ophidien Envenimation in Libreville

Introduction: In 2017, WHO reintegrated snake bites into neglected tropical diseases. Our objective was to describe the epidemiological characteristics of ophidian envenomations treated in Libreville from 01/01/2012 to 03/31/2019. 

Methodology: This was a retrospective descriptive multicenter study over 7 years (2012-2018) and prospective (1st quarter 2019) about 23 cases. All patients received for ophidian envenomation with key information for our study were included. Ethical considerations were respected. 

Results: We conducted our study on 23 cases of ophidian envenomation. The median age was 26 years. There was a slight male predominance with a sex ratio of 1.09. Bites were mainly nocturnal 34.78% of cases. The lower limb was most affected 73.91% of cases. Local syndrome was the most common clinical sign. Viperine syndrome accounted for 95.65% of cases. Biological tests were not often requested. Those who had c

Conclusion: The establishment of therapeutic protocols and the accessibility to antivenom will contribute to improving the hospital management of these pathologies.