When to Seek Medical Care

Even with what appears to be a minor bite, contact your doctor to be sure a tetanus shot is not needed. Once the skin is broken, the doctor should be called because the risk of infection is higher. Any sign of infection, even if you have already been seen by the doctor, is a reason to call.

Using the hospital's emergency department for a human bite is often the right thing to do. Emergency doctors generally have a lot of experience with bites and other wounds. People who do not have a doctor or who cannot get in touch with their doctor may have to use the emergency department even for minor bites in order to get a tetanus shot and a doctor's opinion of the need for other treatment, such as antibiotics.

• Closed fist injuries: Bites over the knuckles are very serious. These are at high risk for infection. Once infected, these bites can lead to major damage to the important parts of the hand. Additionally, the force of punching someone in the mouth can lead to broken bones or cuts in the tendons, and those need expert care. An infected bite in this area will usually require an overnight stay in the hospital.
  
  
• Finger chomping injuries: Just like the closed fist injury, this human bite can lead to serious problems. The bones and tendons can be injured and are at risk for infection.
  
  
• Bites with tissue loss: An expert can often repair loss of a tissue part as the result of a human bite. The fastest way to get these experts is through the emergency department.
  
  
• Deep bites: Any bite that bleeds a lot or appears to be more than a scrape needs thorough cleaning and examination. The emergency department is well equipped to do this by having special equipment and lighting.
  
  
• Infected bites: Bites that become infected often mean that you have to stay in the hospital and receive antibiotics through an IV. The doctors in the emergency department are generally skilled in knowing which infected bites can be treated at home and which need to be treated in the hospital.
  
  
• Bites of the head in children: Because of the thin nature of the scalp and the risk of a serious infection, any cut in a child's scalp (including the forehead) that was caused by a tooth should be evaluated in the emergency department.
  
  
• Bites in other special areas: Bites of the ear and nose are a problem because of the cartilage in this area. An infection of the cartilage can be very difficult to treat and can cause permanent damage.
  
  
• Bites suspected to be from child abuse: The emergency department staff can provide assistance in making sure the child is protected and the proper authorities notified in these cases.