Clinical Findings in Gila Monster Envenomation

 

Clinical findings:

(1) small puncture wounds made by the lizard's teeth, which may or may not break off teeth into the wound

(2) pain that ranges from burning to excruciating pain

(3) edema with swelling in the affected limb

(4) systemic findings

(5) tenderness around the wound site with variable discoloration

(6) a firmly attached lizard that may have to be pried off

 

Systemic findings:

(1) general weakness

(2) dizziness

(3) faintness

(4) increased perspiration

(5) hypotension which may rarely progress to shock

(6) allergic reactions

 

Time course:

(1) The pain is usually maximal at 30-60 minutes after the bite

(2) The pain may persist for several hours.

(3) The swelling is slowly progressive over several hours but may be significant.