Is injecting a finger with rabies immunoglobulin dangerous?

Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2006 Aug;75(2):363-4.

Abstract

Treating potentially rabies virus infected wounds requires the injection of rabies immunoglobulin into and around the wounds, followed by vaccination with an approved tissue culture rabies vaccine. A significant number of such bite wounds involves fingers where there is little space for expansion. Injecting immunoglobulin into such areas under pressure may induce a compartment syndrome caused by compromising circulation. We carried out a retrospective review and a prospective study of patients seen with digital bite injuries and found that it is a safe procedure if carried out with care by experienced staff.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Bites and Stings / therapy*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Finger Injuries / virology*
  • Fingers
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins / administration & dosage*
  • Infant
  • Injections, Intralesional / methods
  • Injections, Intralesional / standards
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rabies / prevention & control*
  • Rabies / therapy*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Wound Infection / prevention & control

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins