Work

The Potential Effects of Centipede Venom and Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Leading to Pseudothrombocytopenia in an 11-Year-Old Girl

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Centipede bites are uncommon and mostly occur in subtropical regions. While most cases present with local swelling and tenderness around the bite site, with few systemic manifestations, the potential complications can be deadly. This case describes an unusual presentation of a centipede bite, in which the patient experienced an unexpected fluctuation in platelet counts, which occurred up to weeks after the bite. While the cause remains unclear, we question whether this occurred solely due to the direct effects of the centipede venom or if there were other factors at play. The aim of this report is to explore the possible differentials. Most importantly, we shed light on a plausible but often overlooked cause of thrombocytopenia; ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-induced pseudothrombocytopenia, the anticoagulant present in blood sample collection tubes. Similar cases have yet to be reported to our knowledge. Physicians must maintain a high degree of suspicion when facing unexplained thrombocytopenia in clinical practice.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.82822

Authors: Nikita N Egbert, Umme Salma Rangwala, Andrew David, Vivek Sugadev, Alan V Koshy

Institutions: Christian Medical College, Vellore, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College

Language: English

Topic: Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Christian Medical College, Vellore