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Sea snake envenomation
Author(s) -
Phillips Charles M.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
dermatologic therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1529-8019
pISSN - 1396-0296
DOI - 10.1046/j.1529-8019.2002.01504.x
Subject(s) - envenomation , medicine , rhabdomyolysis , antivenom , elapidae , snake bites , poison control , intensive care medicine , medical emergency , venom , anesthesia , fishery , biology
Sea snakes are common venomous reptiles found in the warmer waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The most common circumstance for sea snake bite is an accidental encounter by a fisherman while emptying a fishing net. The venom is extremely toxic and most significant on the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Significant envenomation occurs in about 20% of bites, with death occurring in about 3% of bites. Death most often occurs from respiratory arrest secondary to neurotoxicity. Myotoxins may cause muscle pain and stiffness and lead to clinically significant rhabdomyolysis and possible acute renal failure. Sea snake bites should all be considered a medical emergency. Immobilization of the victim with compression of the envenomed area is important first aid, followed by transporting the victim to an emergency medical facility. Artificial ventilation and hydration with crystalloid may be important lifesaving maneuvers. Sea snake antivenom may be critical for survival in a significant envenomation.