Envenomation by the hump nosed viper (hypnale hypnale) in children : a pilot study

Aim of study To study the epidemiological pattern and the effects of envenomation by the hump nosed viper () in children. All previous publications on this subject are based on the adult experience.
Location Health Department Paediatric Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital. Method Prospective descriptive study.
Conclusion There are significant epidemiological differences between the bites observed in children as opposed to adults. The effects of local envenomation were seen in all child victims, but only five showed evidence of systemic envenomation. The effects of systemic envenomation appear to be related to the body surface area and are commoner than in adult patients. The effects of systemic envenomation manifest very early in the case of children.  

Key words: hump nosed viper, hypnale hypnale, envenomation, children

Doi: 10.4038/sljch.v30i1.790

Sri Lankan Journal of Child Health, 2001; 30: 8-11