Dong received first aid at a hospital in Vinh Long before being transferred to Military Hospital 121 in Can Tho. He was semi-conscious, with a rapid heartbeat and a burning sensation across his body. Doctors noted the massive venom load from 150 hornet stings posed a direct threat to his life. The patient suffered acute rhabdomyolysis and massive intravascular hemolysis, evidenced by sarsi-colored urine. This led to acute kidney failure, myocarditis, a risk of cardiac arrest due to arrhythmia, acute hepatitis, coagulation disorders, and liver damage.

Upon arrival at the Intensive Care and Anti-Poisoning Department, Dong underwent plasma exchange, adsorption hemodialysis, and continuous hemodialysis. Within 20 minutes, he was moved to the Hemodialysis Department for intermittent hemodialysis, also known as periodic hemodialysis, and adsorption using an HA230 filter. This emergency hemodialysis technique aims to remove toxins, pesticides, or poisons from a patient's blood.

After nine days of continuous hemodialysis and special care, the patient's body functions improved, with the exception of his kidneys. He then received periodic hemodialysis every other day. Dong has now recovered, his urine is clear, and all his test results are normal, leading to his discharge from the hospital.

A representative from Military Hospital 121 stated that Dong's case represents the highest number of hornet stings successfully treated by their unit.

Patient Bui Van Dong receiving treatment at the hospital. *Photo: Hospital provided.*

Colonel Tran Manh Hung, Director of Military Hospital 121, described the case as unique. He explained that hornet venom is potent and abundant, significantly impacting multiple organs and causing multiple organ failure. Thanks to the efforts of the doctors and modern equipment, Dong's health indicators returned to normal after 20 days of treatment.

The total cost for Dong's treatment exceeded 274 million VND. Health insurance covered 156 million VND, leaving the patient responsible for 118 million VND. Given Dong's difficult family circumstances, the Hospital's Board of Directors decided to provide financial assistance for this amount.

By An Binh