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

• Atractaspis Engaddensis Snake Bite
• Ein Geddi Burrowing Asp Snake Bite
• Palestinian Stiletto Snake Bite

What is Palestinian Mole Viper Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Palestinian mole viper (Atractaspis engaddensis) is a venomous snake found distributed in some countries of the Middle East and to the northeast of the African continent. It is observed in the hot desert regions of Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia
• The snake belongs to the Elapidae family, which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes. Even though the snake is called the Palestinian mole viper, it is strictly not a viper; the snake is better described as a burrowing asp
• The small and cylindrical Palestinian mole viper usually ranges in size from 1.5 to over 3 feet in length. The slender to fairly stout-bodied snake has a short, pointed tail. Its head is small and conical and indistinct from the neck, with a broad and flattened snout. The snake has fairly large fangs that protrude from the corners of its mouth which appears partially-closed
• The body of the Palestinian Mole Viper is smooth, glossy, and uniformly black or dark grey in coloration. It has a pale underbelly. The snake is generally ground-dwelling and is known to surface during the rainy seasons. It is a nocturnal reptile that typically hunts during the night. The snake mostly preys on lizards, other snakes, and small mammals (rodents). Since the fangs protrude out of its mouth, the snake can strike without really opening their mouths (using one side fang too)
• The reptile prefers to escape and is not known to easily strike when threatened. If cornered, the snake arches its neck with the head being pointed towards the ground in an inverted "U" shape. If provoked further, it may coil up tightly and thrash its head about violently. The snake is almost impossible to hold safely by hands
• Contact with humans is uncommon and the snake is noted for its mild disposition. Palestinian Mole Viper Snake Bite may occasionally result in fatalities due to systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite), if the condition is left untreated, from the presence of highly potent cardiotoxins and hemotoxins in the venom. Generally, fatal bites are highly uncommon
• The signs and symptoms of Palestinian Mole Viper Snake Bite may be non-specific and include pain, bruising, and swelling at the bite site, headache, diarrhea, weakness, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness. Severe complications may involve the cardiovascular system resulting in myocardial ischemia; tissue necrosis may also be noted
• Currently, no suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is available for Palestinian Mole Viper Snake Bites. Symptomatic treatment is mainly considered that includes wound care and cleaning, cardiac monitoring, and breathing support, as needed. The prognosis of the condition with prompt and effective therapy is usually good