There were approximately 300, 000 snake-bite patients annually reported world-wide, exclusive of communist bloc countries, and an estimated 300, 000~40, 000 fatalities resulted. .
Clinical observation was made 140 patients of patients of snake bite who received treatment at Chomiam University Hospital for 4.5 years from 1972 to 1976.
The results were as follows:
1) The annual distribution was indicated to increase more and more yearly and the seasonal distribution was frequent in September.
2) The sex ratio was male to female 2: 1.The age distribution indicated the prevalent victims were in teen age group.
3). The most frequent, place thee accident happened was the field (55.7%) and the most pre-dilection site of the body for victim was the foot (60.0%).
4) In 42 cases (30.0%) the fang mark to be observed was two.
5) The time on arrival for the´ first aid treatment was between 4 hours and 12 hours in 51 cases (36.5%).
6) The duration of tourniquet application-was between 6 hours and 24 hours in 30 cases (21.4%).
7) The predominant signs were hematuria in 26 cases (18.5%) and local edema in 140 cases (100%).
8) In laboratory findings, the Hg level was over 11gm% in 121 cases (86.4%) and WBC count was´ under 15, 000 per cu. Mm. in 88 cases (62.8%), and urinary protein was trace to 1111-in 31 cases (22.1%).
9) Phlegmon was observed in 76 cases (59. 3%) as a complication.
10) The mortality rate was 7.14% of total cases and the most common cause of death was acute renal failure.
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