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Large-Eyed Pitviper Snake Bite

Article
Brain & Nerve
Bone, Muscle, & Joint
+9
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAJul 28, 2022

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

  • Dark-Green Pit Viper Snake Bite
  • Kramer's Pitviper Snake Bite
  • Trimeresurus Macrops Snake Bite

What is Large-Eyed Pitviper Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

  • The large-eyed pitviper (Trimeresurus macrops) is a moderately venomous snake found in Southeast Asia. It is seen in the countries of Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam. 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 large-eyed pitviper can grow from less than 1.5 to about 2.5 feet in length. The pitviper preys on a variety of animals including small mammals (rodents), tree frogs, lizards, and small birds. It is a nocturnal reptile that inhabits bush vegetation in the tropical endemic regions, in elevations up to 3,300 feet (1,000 m). The snake is generally found on small trees and large plants
  • The snake has a medium-sized body with a fairly long tapering prehensile tail (that may be red-blue in color). The head is broad, triangular-shaped, with large golden yellow eyes, and distinct from its neck; the snake’s throat may be slightly bluish in color. Some species may present darker crossbands on their back. The snake’s belly is in lighter shades of blue-white
  • Human contact with the large-eyed pitviper is not common. The snake may be found around open country sides, cultivated lands, and can enter gardens and residences in search of prey, even in urban areas. Even though generally languid, the snake bites if it is sufficiently provoked
  • Large-Eyed Pitviper Snake Bites can cause moderate envenomation (venom injection), which may result in deaths without proper treatment. The venom is a potent mix of hemotoxins that can cause variable symptoms in the victims including bleeding issues and shock. A moderate rate of envenoming is reported
  • The signs and symptoms of Large-Eyed Pitviper Snake Bite may include localized effects such as pain at the bite site and swelling. Systemic symptoms may include tissue necrosis, headache, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, lightheadedness, and collapse
  • Early administration of suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is the mainstay of treatment. Apart from this, symptomatic treatment is necessary, which may include pain medication, intravenous fluid administration, blood transfusion, and respiratory support, as needed. The prognosis of Large-Eyed Pitviper Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; very few fatalities have been documented due to a lack of treatment
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

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