Adder bites in Aldershot

Abstract

Each summer cases of adder bite occur in Aldershot and its surrounding areas. Many of these are brought to the Cambridge Military Hospital. This paper reports three cases that together illustrate the commonest clinical signs and symptoms. These include rapid swelling, malaise and anxiety. An important diagnostic indication is an early and marked leucocytosis. Treatment regimes are also reviewed with the advice ultimately being to "admit and monitor". The danger of early resort to antivenom is also examined and the principles of both treatment and first aid are developed.