Harapás

Harapás is a Hungarian noun that denotes a bite: the act of biting, the bite itself, or the mark left by teeth. In everyday language it can refer to a bite wound or a bite mark on skin or objects. In dentistry the term can also describe how the upper and lower teeth come together during biting, i.e., dental occlusion.

Common contexts for harapás include human bites, animal bites (such as from dogs or cats), and accidental bites during eating, sports, or other activities. The severity of a bite injury depends on factors such as bite force, the location and depth of the wound, and whether the skin was breached. Bite wounds are often contaminated by oral flora, which increases the risk of infection.

Medical relevance and management typically involve thorough wound cleaning and irrigation, assessment of depth and tissue damage, and evaluation of tetanus status. Choice of treatment depends on the bite type and risk of infection; antibiotic therapy is commonly considered for many bites, especially if the wound is deep, on the hands or face, or from an animal with unknown rabies status. Rabies exposure from an animal bite is a consideration in many regions, and post-exposure prophylaxis may be advised according to local guidelines. In forensic contexts, bite marks (harapásnyom) can be used as investigative evidence, though their reliability and interpretation are subject to professional standards and debate.

Prevention focuses on avoiding provocation of animals, supervising children around animals, and seeking prompt medical evaluation for bites, particularly when they are large, deep, or show signs of infection or nerve damage.