RT Book, Section A1 Zafren, Ken A1 Thurman, R. Jason A1 Jones, Ian D. A2 Knoop, Kevin J. A2 Stack, Lawrence B. A2 Storrow, Alan B. A2 Thurman, R. Jason SR Print(0) ID 1181050932 T1 Tropical Snake Envenomations T2 The Atlas of Emergency Medicine, 5e YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw-Hill PP New York, NY SN 9781260134940 LK accessemergencymedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1181050932 RD 2024/10/05 AB The epidemiology of snakebites in tropical regions differs considerably from that seen in more temperate climates. In general, the absolute number of venomous snakes is higher in the tropics, and snakes are often located in areas of high population density. The prevalence of bites is also higher due to differences in agricultural and hunting practices, frequent flooding, lack of adequate footwear in many locations, and housing that allows access of snakes into living areas. The annual mortality of snakebite in India may exceed 20,000. Snakebite is said to be the 5th most common cause of death in Myanmar. In some indigenous populations in South America, up to 20% of adult deaths are from snakebite. Places where snakebites are common are often in remote locations where medical care may not be immediately available. Signs and symptoms depend on the type of envenomation and the amount of toxin injected. Local pain, swelling, and blistering are seen with many snakebites. Clotting disturbances, frank hemorrhage, and shock are seen with many viper bites, while neurotoxicity can be seen with elapid and sea snake bites.