Abstract
Background
As the ownership of lizards becomes more prevalent in the United States, injuries
from these exotic pets will increase. Emergency and primary care physicians must be
familiar with the proper management of lizard bites to the head and neck.
Objectives
The aim of this case report is to discuss the potential complications and proper management
of lizard bites to the head and neck.
Case Report
A 47-year-old man presented to the emergency department 3 h after his 5-foot iguana bit his face. The wounds were irrigated and primarily closed.
Tetanus prophylaxis was administered. He was given oral amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium
for 7 days. Sutures were removed 1 week after the repair.
Conclusions
Topical antiseptic care, verification of tetanus status, primary wound closure, and
careful monitoring of non-venomous lizard bites is recommended for lizard bites to
the head and neck. Wounds at risk for infection should be treated with a quinolone
or other antibiotics covering Salmonella as well as human skin flora. Venomous lizard (e.g., Gila monster and Mexican Beaded
Lizard) bites require prompt attention due to potentially significant morbidities
including anaphylaxis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and acute myocardial
infarction.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 21, 2010
Accepted:
October 17,
2008
Received in revised form:
October 16,
2008
Received:
June 8,
2008
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
