From the Guidelines
The person who bit another individual and caused bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare provider as soon as possible after the incident. This evaluation is crucial because human bites can transmit infections from the biter to the victim through saliva and blood contact. The biter should be tested for bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, especially if they broke the skin of the victim 1. The healthcare provider will likely take a medical history, perform a physical examination, and order appropriate blood tests. The biter may also need their own wound care if they injured their mouth during the biting incident.
The evaluation should consider the possibility that both the person bitten and the person who inflicted the bite were exposed to bloodborne pathogens 1. According to the guidelines, for human bites, clinical evaluation must include the possibility that both the person bitten and the person who inflicted the bite were exposed to bloodborne pathogens. Transmission of HIV infection by this route has been reported rarely, but not after an occupational exposure 1.
Key considerations for the evaluation include:
- Assessing the risk of infection using available information
- Testing known sources for HBsAg, anti-HCV, and HIV antibody
- Evaluating the exposed person's immune status for HBV infection
- Providing post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for exposures posing a risk of infection transmission 1.
It is essential to note that the evaluation should occur as soon as possible after the incident, as early detection of potential infections allows for timely intervention and reduces the risk of disease transmission. The most recent guidelines should be followed, and the evaluation should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances 1.
From the Research
Evaluation of the Person Who Did the Biting
- The person who did the biting should be evaluated to assess the risk of transmission of infectious diseases, as human bites can pose a risk for transmission of infectious diseases 2.
- A systematic and detailed evaluation of the bite incident should be performed to provide necessary information for forensic purposes, which may include evaluation by a forensic odontologist 3.
Importance of Evaluation
- Evaluation is crucial in identifying potential health risks, such as the risk of rabies, and administering appropriate immunoprophylaxis 4.
- Early evaluation and treatment can decrease morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients at high risk for infection 4, 2.