Snake bite of western hognose snake (Heterodon nasicus)

There are few reports of snake bites by western hognose snakes (Heterodon nasicus), most of which have been associated with local reactions. We report a patient with pronounced local swelling after a bite by a western hognose snake. Local antiseptic therapy and systemic antibiotics are recommended for infection prophylaxis; in addition, laboratory tests should be run to exclude systemic involvement. Regarding tetanus vaccination status, a booster should be considered according to current guideline recommendation.

Automated summary

Snake bites by western hognose snakes are rare, with most cases presenting as local reactions such as pronounced swelling. Treatment typically involves local antiseptic therapy, systemic antibiotics for infection prophylaxis, and laboratory tests to rule out systemic involvement. Tetanus vaccination status should be assessed and a booster considered according to current guidelines.