human bite


hu·man bite

(hyū'măn bīt) A wound caused by human teeth; because the human oral cavity harbors multiple pathogens, such wounds must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent serious infection.

human bite

A laceration or puncture wound caused by the teeth of a human. The aerobic and anaerobic organisms transmitted from the mouth may cause cellulitis, and, occasionally, infections of other soft tissues and bones.

Treatment

The wound should be irrigated thoroughly and may require surgical débridement. A moist dressing should be applied and tetanus prophylaxis administered. A penicillin with a beta-lactamase inhibitor usually provides adequate antibiotic coverage.

See also: bite

hu·man bite

(hyū'măn bīt) A wound caused by human teeth; because the human oral cavity harbors multiple pathogens; must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent serious infection.