Medical expert of the article
New publications
Bites of poisonous lizards, crocodiles and iguanas
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Significant bites of other reptiles include bites of poisonous lizards, alligators, crocodiles and iguanas.
By poisonous lizards are lizard-gila {Heloderma suspectum), is found in the southwestern part of the United States and Mexico and eskorpion ( n . Horridum), living in Mexico. Their complex poison contains serotonin, arginine-esterase, hyaluronidase, phospholipase A2 and one or more salivary callikreins, but very few neurotoxic components and coagulopathy enzymes. Fatal bites are rare. During a bite, a poisonous lizard clings the victim's limb firmly, the poison penetrates into the body during chewing. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling and swelling, ecchymosis, lymphangitis, and enlarged lymph nodes. Systemic manifestations, such as general weakness, sweating, thirst, headache and ringing in the ears, can develop in moderate severity or severe cases. Cardiovascular collapse is rarely observed. The clinical course is similar to that for mild to moderate poisoning by common species of rattlesnakes. In place, the lizard should be removed with forceps, bringing the flame to its chin or immersing it completely under the water. In inpatient settings, supportive treatment and treatment are provided, as in case of poisoning after a bite of a Yamkogal snake; the antidote does not exist. The wound should be examined with a small needle to detect the fragments of the teeth and then treated. Prophylactic antibiotics are usually not recommended.
The alligator and crocodile usually bite people who follow them in captivity, although it is possible in nature. Bites are not poisonous, a high frequency of specific infectious complications of soft tissues [Aeromonas) is typical , but in principle they are treated as a common trauma. Wounds are irrigated with antiseptics and sanitized. In the future, delayed primary closure of the wound or leave the wound heal secondary tension. For prevention, appoint clindamycin and co-trimoxazole [sulfa-methoxazole + trimethoprim] (first-choice drugs) or tetracycline.
Bites and wounds of iguanas claws are encountered more and more, as more and more people plant them as pets. Wounds are superficial, their treatment is local. Infection of soft tissues is uncharacteristic, but in cases of appearance in the wound there may be salmonella. Treatment with antibiotics fluoroquinolone series.
[