Document Type : Case Report

Authors

• Saw Joo Ee ^{1, 2}
• Pauline Yap ^{1, 3}
• Wan Azman Wan Sulaiman ¹

¹ Reconstructive Sciences Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia

² Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hospital Putrajaya, Putrajaya, Malaysia

³ Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Dog and cat bites are the most common animal bites in humans. Lizard bites are rare and can cause significant morbidity. There are over 3000 species of lizards, but only two are venomous and medically significant. Larger lizards have been reported to bite humans, but no cases have been documented of smaller geckos doing this. This case report aims to raise awareness of the potential threat that smaller lizards pose, especially to children.
Case Report: A 2-year-old child was bitten on the left ear by a gecko, resulting in multiple lacerations. After primary assessment and stabilization, the wound was irrigated and dressed with a Bat’s ear dressing. Intravenous antibiotics were administered, and the wound was sutured five days later. The child was discharged with a one-week course of oral antibiotics.
Discussion: Lizard bites can cause significant morbidity, especially in children. While geckos are not poisonous, they can defend themselves with their teeth and cause harm to humans. The Gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard are the only venomous species. Management of lizard bites is similar to other animal bites, and wound irrigation is crucial. Antibiotic prophylaxis should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Delayed primary closure may be an option for wound management.
Conclusions: This case report highlights the need for awareness and appropriate management of lizard bites.

Keywords

• Ear
• Trauma
• Pediatric
• Lizard
• Animal
• Bite

Main Subjects

• Emergency Medicine