A case of cellulitis of the hands caused by a predatory bird attack.
10.1016/S2221-1691(11)60019-1
- Author:
M Adil Abbas KHAN
1
;
Mohammed FARID
;
Zain A SOBANI
;
Syed Nadir ALI
;
Huzaifa MALICK
;
Maryam BAQIR
;
Hasanat SHARIF
;
M Asim BEG
Author Information
1. Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Selly Oak Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
- Publication Type:Case Reports
- Keywords:
Deforestation;
Harris hawk;
Predatory birds;
Urbanization
- MeSH:
Aged, 80 and over;
Animals;
Behavior, Animal;
Cellulitis;
etiology;
Hand Injuries;
etiology;
Hawks;
physiology;
Humans
- From:Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine
2011;1(2):166-168
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Many species have been drastically affected by rapid urbanization. Harris's hawks from their natural habitat of open spaces and a supply of rodents, lizards and other small prey have been forced to change their natural environment adapting to living in open spaces in sub- and peri-urban areas. Specific areas include playgrounds, parks and school courtyards. The migration of this predatory species into these areas poses a risk to individuals, and especially the children are often attacked by claws, talons and beaks intentionally or as collateral damage while attacking rodent prey. In addition, the diverse micro-organisms harbored in the beaks and talons can result in wound infections, presenting a challenge to clinical management. Here we would like to present a case of an 80-year-old man with cellulitis of both hands after sustaining minor injuries from the talons of a Harris's hawk and review the management options. We would also like to draw attention to the matter that, even though previously a rarity, more cases of injuries caused by birds of prey may be seen in hospital settings.
