Epididymitis in Snakebite: A Rare Case Report in a 16-year-old Patient

Abstract

Snakebite is considered a major health threat in Iran, mostly caused by pit vipers (Crotalidae species). A bite by a viper snake causes the release of plasma and blood to the tissue around the bite inflammation and tissue damage. The occurrence of epididymitis in the absence of a bite in the scrotal area is an unusual phenomenon. In this case report study, we reported epididymitis in a 16-year-old patient who was bitten by a viper on the right leg. This patient initially experienced local bleeding, reversible coagulopathy (thrombocytopenia and increased prothrombin time and international normalized ratio), leukocytosis, and neutrophilia. Due to the occurrence of a new organic complication, re-administration of five vials of snake antidote polyvalent serum along with corticosteroid, pain reliever, and antihistamine alleviated epididymitis and the patient was discharged consequently with full recovery. In this article, the details of the relevant diagnostic and treatment for this young person are provided.