Análise do perfil epidemiológico e clínico dos acidentes ofídicos registrados no Brasil na última década

Abstract

Snakebite is a global public health problem, being considered a Neglected Tropical Disease by the World Health Organization. The dissemination of clinical and epidemiological information on snakebite accidents recorded in Brazil allows us to assess the severity of this public health problem in our country. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological and clinical profile of snakebites recorded in Brazil from 2012 to 2022. Methods: Descriptive and analytical review of epidemiological and clinical characteristics related to snakebites, based on data recorded in SINAN, from 2012 to 2022.The epidemiological analysis of snakebites was carried out based on data recorded in SINAN, from 2012 to 2022. The analysis of data relating to studies on snakebite poisoning found in the medical-scientific literature was carried out through a systematic review, using the PRISMA method. Results and Discussion: 277,394 snakebites were recorded in the country, with an average of 25,217.6 cases per year, of which 80% are caused by snakes of the genus Bothrops and occur predominantly in the North and Northeast regions. We observed a predominance of male victims (77%) and those of economically active age (predominantly in the age group of 20 to 39 years of age, with 34% of cases). These data corroborate the articles studied in this work, and with the literature in general. The epidemiological profile of snakebites recorded in Brazil has remained similar throughout this decade and data on the victims' clinical conditions suggest that, despite the considerable percentage of cases with moderate to severe symptoms, which can culminate in disabling sequelae and even in deaths, the majority of victims received rapid medical care and adequate treatment. The early use of specific antivenom serum for each genus of venomous snake, in the first hours after the victim is bitten by a snake, is decisive for adequate treatment, avoids complications and serious injuries caused by the venoms, and greatly increases the chances of a cure. Conclusion: Snakebites are a non-eradicable problem. Therefore, the union between science and public policies is very important to develop measures to prevent and control snakebite in Brazil. Such measures must consider regional specificities, such as: socioeconomic, educational and cultural level of the population, access to information and specialized medical centers.