Severe snakebite envenomation revealed by an acute abdomen

Abstract

Abstract Acute abdomens are common conditions, with many aetiologies in developing countries. Abdominal bleeding due to snake envenomation is an extremely rare aetiology. A 11-year-old girl was admitted for acute abdominal pains. She had a history of foot bite of unknown origin. Physical examination revealed palor and abdominal tenderness. At laparotomy, there were peritoneal and retroperitoneal diffuse hematomas. Laboratory studies revealed abnormal coagulation profile. Retroperitoneal and peritoneal hematomas’ diagnosis, by consumptive coagulopathy, due to snakebite envenomation, was made. Polyvalent antivenom administration permitted a normalization of coagulation profile, however, with persistent surgical site bleeding. Whole blood transfusion was administered with bleeding stop. Sudden abdominal pain, palor and signs of peritonism suggest an acute abdomen. However, abdominal bleeding due to snakebite envenomation should be considered, especially in child with unidentified bite history. Imaging modalities may helpful to confirm the abdominal bleeding. Antivenom is the mainstay of the treatment.