Abstract

Coagulopathy following snakebite typically occur within 24 h. Occasionally, abnormality of the coagulation system persists into the second week; although clinically, significant bleeding is rare after seven days. Early coagulopathy and concurrent acute renal failure tends to increase the odd of delayed coagulopathy. We report a case of delayed coagulopathy and renal failure occurring after 2 weeks in a previously healthy male patient who was bitten by Echis occelatus to illustrate the fact that coagulopathy could be delayed till the third week after snakebite. We suggest close clinical and/or laboratory surveillance of patients who survived an early envenomation, so as to forestall unnecessary morbidity and mortality.

Key words: Coagulopathy, snakebite, Echis occelatus.