It is estimated that an animal or another human being will bite half of all Americans during their lifetimes. The vast majority of the estimated 2 million annual mammalian bite wounds are minor, and the victims never seek medical attention. Bite wounds account for approximately 1% of emergency department visits and more than $30 million in annual healthcare costs.
Infection is the most common bite-associated complication; the relative risk is determined by the species of the inflicting animal, bite location, host factors, and local wound care. Most infections caused by mammalian bites are polymicrobial, with mixed aerobic and anaerobic species. The clinical presentation and appropriate treatment of infected bite wounds vary according to the causative organisms. Human bite wounds have long had a bad reputation for severe infection and frequent complications. However, recent data demonstrate that human bites occurring anywhere other than the hand present no more risk for infection than any other type of mammalian bite.
The increased incidence of serious infections and complications associated with human bites to the hand warrants their consideration and management in three different categories: occlusion/simple, clenched fist injuries, and occlusion bites to the hand.
