Viper bite envenomation

Viper bite envenomation is a medical emergency that occurs when a person is bitten by a venomous snake belonging to the family Viperidae. Viper bites can cause a range of symptoms, from mild pain and swelling at the site of the bite to severe systemic effects that can be life-threatening.

The venom of vipers contains a complex mixture of toxins, which can vary depending on the species of snake. These toxins can affect the blood, muscles, and nerves, and can cause symptoms such as:

Local pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the bite Nausea and vomiting Headache and dizziness Muscle weakness and twitching Blurred vision and difficulty speaking Low blood pressure Hemorrhage (bleeding) Kidney failure Respiratory distress Treatment for viper bite envenomation typically involves administering antivenom, which is a medication that contains antibodies that can neutralize the venom. Other supportive measures, such as pain relief, hydration, and management of complications, may also be necessary.

It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you have been bitten by a viper, as early treatment can be critical in preventing serious complications. Prevention is also key in avoiding viper bites, and measures such as wearing protective clothing and footwear, using caution when walking in areas where snakes are known to live, and avoiding handling or provoking snakes can help reduce the risk of snake bites.

Cerebral complications are rare in viper bites but may potentially fatal. Central nervous system involvement in a viper bite is either due to neurotoxins or hemorrhagins present in the venom, which may induce cerebral thrombosis, ischemia, infarction, and hemorrhage. Here we present a case of a previously healthy adult male who succumbed to extensive subarachnoid, intracerebral, and intraventricular hemorrhages involving bilateral cerebral hemispheres following viper snakebite envenomation. This report highlights the importance of anticipating cerebral complications in viper bite envenomation, a rare occurrence. It also emphasizes the need for early antisnake venom administration to prevent and control systemic envenomation and its complications ¹⁾.