Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan CK, Au-Yeung SK, Tse ML
Affiliation :
Hong Kong Poison Control Centre, United Christian Hospital
Introduction :
A variety of exotic animals, including venomous snakes, are being kept as pets in Hong Kong. A previous local study performed by the Hong Kong Poison Information Centre (HKPIC) reported 6 cases of injuries and envenomation caused by pet snakes during a ten-year period between 2008 and 2017 (1). An increase in the poisoning incidence and the clinical severity of similar cases was observed in recent years.
Objectives :
Describe the epidemiology of pet snakes’ envenomation from July 2017 to June 2023, and an overview of the corresponding antivenom stocking strategy.
Methodology :
Retrospective review of HKPIC data.
Result & Outcome :
A total of 26 cases of pet snakebites were reported in recent 6 years (Table 1). This incidence surpasses that of the previous study conducted in 2017, indicating a concerning trend. Of particular concern are the reports of highly venomous exotic snakes being kept as pets within our community. These are haematotoxic snakes which can cause severe coagulopathy (figure 2) and wound necrosis after bite. Severe morbidity and mortality have been reported after these bites in other countries. For instance, the illustrated case of Protobothrops managshanensis bite resulted in severe local swelling and persistent incoagulable blood for 10 days, requiring two weeks of ICU care.
Discussion
Exotic animals, especially venomous snakes, are being kept as pets in Hong Kong and have caused injuries and envenomation in their owners. Specific antivenoms may not be available in Hong Kong. This poses a significant challenge for the clinical management and the strategy for antivenom stocking. The HA Toxicology Service regularly reviews the antidote stocking based on patient demand. Currently, our antivenom list include options that can effectively treat envenomation from local venomous species. The demand for “exotic” antivenoms is growing, and efforts are being made to expand the list to meet these requirements (table 2):
(tables and figures can be provided by email)
