What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Atropoides Mexicanus Snake Bite
• Metlapilcoatlus Mexicanus Snake Bite

What is Central American Jumping Pitviper Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Central American jumping pitviper (Metlapilcoatlus mexicanus or Atropoides mexicanus) is a venomous snake that ranges in size from above 1.5 to over 3 feet in length. The snake belongs to the subspecies of pit vipers, family Viperidae. Pit vipers are termed so, due to the presence of certain heat-sensing organs located in a recess/notch between their eyes and nostrils
• The snake is found in Central America, including in the countries of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama, in up to elevations of 5,200 feet (1,600m). The pitviper inhabits the tropical wet rainforests, lower cloud forests, savannahs, and rocky mountain sides. Depending on the region, the reptile may be active during the daytime or nighttime. It feeds on small mammals (rodents) and lizards (skinks); juveniles may prey on insects too
• The thick stocky body of the snake may present a coarse appearance; the end of its short tail resembles a long spine. The head is triangular in shape and broad, and distinct from the neck. The snout is generally rounded. The Central American jumping pitvipers are noted in brown to gray shades, but may also be cream yellow to red. The back presents dark brown zigzag angular/rhomboid patterns. The head may exhibit a dark line from the eye angled backwards. The underbelly of the snake is usually lighter with dark blotches (in some specimens)
• Jumping pitvipers are named so because when they lunge forward to strike an intruder, they do so with such a force that the snake’s body is slightly lifted off the ground. If provoked, these snakes are known to take a threatening posture and strike wildly. Central American Jumping Pitviper Snake Bites involving humans are not commonly reported; the snake is also not reported to be an aggressive reptile
• However, in many cases, the snake is known to hold on to its prey to inject more venom, in order to subdue it. Thus, a bite from a fully-grown snake has the potential to result in moderate-to-severe envenomation (venom injection) with some systemic symptoms, in the absence of adequate treatment. The snake venom is a potent mix of hemotoxins-myotoxins that can occasionally cause bleeding issues and shock
• In general, the signs and symptoms of Central American Jumping Pitviper Snake Bite may include mild to moderate pain at the bite site and local swelling with bruising, blistering, and tissue necrosis. In case of systemic symptoms, the bite can result in headache, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and collapse. However, lethal bites have not been reported
• Early administration of suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is the mainstay of treatment, generally considered only in case of severe envenomation and significant symptoms. Apart from this, symptomatic treatment is necessary, which may include the use of pain medication, wound care, blood transfusion, and breathing support, if needed. The prognosis of Central American Jumping Pitviper Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good