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Rat BitesThe "rat" family is large and includes rodents, mice, etc. These have been known tobite humans. Victims are usually bitten at night while asleep. Laboratory workers are theother group of victims.<strong>Site</strong>sRats attack exposed areas. These include face and extremities. Sometimes manydifferent areas may be bitten.Wound TypeMultiple Punctures- puncture wounds - single or many- bruising- haematomas- mixed wounds- occasionally fractures of small bones like phalanges.DiagnosisHistory and specimen (dead rat) are important.TreatmentGood surgical cleansing of wounds is necessary. The sepsis rate in rat bites is verylow. Clean wounds can therefore be closed primarily especially on the face. Doubtful woundsshould be left open for later suturing or healing by secondary intention.BacteriologyStaph. epidermidis is commonly isolated. Other species include diphtheroids, B.subtilis, Strep. haemolyticus.Prophylactic antibiotics should be given to cover the above bacteria. If wounds arealready infected a cephalosporin plus a penicillinase-resistant penicillin should be given.Tetanus prophylaxis is mandatory.ComplicationsComplications are very rare if appropriate prophylactic measures are taken. Diseasessuch as rat rabies and many plagues have been known to be transmitted by rats. These shouldbe prevented.25
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