This multicenter retrospective study aims to identify the risk factors associated with necrotizing skin infections following venomous snakebites and to develop a predictive model. Clinical data from 99 patients treated between January 2020 and April 2024 at three hospitals in Guangdong Province, China, were analyzed.
Venomous snakebites are a significant public health issue, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions like southern China. Necrotizing skin infections are a severe but relatively rare complication of venomous snakebites, often resulting from delayed treatment and bacterial invasion. This study retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 99 patients with venomous snakebites treated at three hospitals in Guangdong Province between January 2020 and April 2024. The primary objective was to identify the major risk factors associated with the development of necrotizing skin infections and to build a predictive model to assist in clinical decision-making. The study included male and female patients aged 14 years and older. Patients with incomplete medical records, long-term use of immunosuppressants, or underlying immunodeficiency diseases were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression identified the Snakebite Severity Score (SSS), blood glucose levels, and D-dimer levels as significant independent predictors of necrotizing infections.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
99
Intravenous administration of 6000 IU of antivenom serum was given to patients envenomed by pit vipers. This treatment was based on Chinese guidelines for the management of snakebites. Additionally, patients received supportive treatments, including antibiotics to prevent infection, antihistamines for allergic reactions, and magnesium sulfate for localized swelling and pain relief.
Patients who did not develop necrotizing skin infections received wound management, including multiple punctures using a three-edged needle for toxin drainage, along with standard wound care and debridement as necessary to prevent infection and promote healing.
Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University
Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
Incidence of Necrotizing Skin Infections
The primary outcome measure is the incidence of necrotizing skin infections among venomous snakebite patients within the study period. Necrotizing infections were identified based on clinical diagnostic criteria, including tissue necrosis, infection severity, and systemic symptoms.
Time frame: 30 days from admission or until discharge.
Hospital Length of Stay
The secondary outcome measure is the duration of hospitalization for patients with venomous snakebites, comparing those who developed necrotizing skin infections with those who did not.
Time frame: From hospital admission until discharge, typically ranging between 1 and 30 days.
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