Laboratory Studies
The most common CBC count finding is an elevation in the WBC count. In rare severe cases, a drop in the platelet count may occur.
Measure serum electrolyte levels, particularly if there is a history of significant underlying disease or evidence of volume loss such as signficnat gastrointestinaly symptoms or diaphoresis.
Helodermatid venoms do not appear to have any anticoagulant fractions. However, very rarely, reports of abnormal coagulation studies with severe bites have been documented. These rare coagulopathies are likely secondary to hemostatic changes occurring as a result of severe endothelial cell damage.
It is reasonable to obtain a prothrombin time, an activated partial thromboplastin time, a fibrinogen level, and a measure of fibrin degradation products, although the clinical significance of abnormalities is not known.
Perform a urinalysis and look for any evidence of blood or casts.
A cardiac panel, including a CK-MB, myoglobin, and troponin should be obtained if the victim has evidence of hemodynamic instability, chest pain, or an abnormal ECG result.
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A Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). Photo by Holly McNally.
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Close-up of the head of a Gila monster. Clearly evident is the bulging musculature of the jaws, which gives this animal a tenacious bite. Photo by Holly McNally.
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The dentition of a Gila monster. The grooved surfaces of the teeth are evident. These grooves allow for venom movement from the venom glands into the victim's tissues. Photo by Michael Cardwell.
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A Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). Photo by Michael Cardwell.
