Animal and human bites: evaluation and management

Abstract

Animal bites and to a lesser extent human bites are common trauma cases in accident and emergency units and their incidence is rising. Bite wounds are often deeper than they appear to be and they are potentially contaminated with uncommon microorganisms. They need careful assessment, thorough debridement and preferably delayed primary closure. Tetanus cover and, although controversial, prophylactic antibiotics should be considered after individual assessment of each case, as the golden first steps for their management.