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

• Persian Desert Horned Viper
• Persian False Hornviper Snake Bite
• Pseudocerastes Persicus Snake Bite

What is Persian Horned Viper Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Persian horned viper (Pseudocerastes persicus) is a mildly venomous snake found in many parts of Middle East and West Asia including in the countries of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Oman, United Arab Emirates, and even Pakistan. The horned viper belongs to the viper family or Viperidae
• Even though named the horned viper, Persian horned vipers lack the characteristic horn noted in other related species. The snake’s body is pale gray or blue-gray to khaki brown with gray or brown-gray blotches or crossbands on its back. The snake presents alternating darker spots on its throat and sides. Its belly is generally white
• The snake grows in size from 1.5 feet to nearly 4 feet in length. The snake is relatively wide and stout-bodied. It has a short and slender, black-tipped tail. The snake’s head is pear-shaped, flattened, and with a narrow neck. The snake has a short and blunt snout. The viper often takes shelter in rodent burrows and beneath bushes
• The Persian horned viper is found at elevations of up to 7,200 feet (nearly 2,200 m) in sandy/basalt and limestone rock desert and hill country with sparse vegetation. The snake is generally slow-moving and can use sidewinding for movement, which may be described as “sideways slithering” action. This terrestrial reptile preys on lizards, small mammals, including mice, and occasionally small birds, typically during the night
• The Persian horned viper has a mild disposition and is not easily irritated. If disturbed, it can hiss loudly and threaten to strike; but will only bite if it is sufficiently disturbed. However, the snake is known to be aggressive during the nights. Human interactions with the snake is infrequent; it also tends to avoid areas of human habitation
• Persian Horned Viper Snake Bites are not known to result in fatalities from systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite). The venom is a mix of potent neurotoxins, but only mild envenoming is generally observed. The signs and symptoms may include local pain, swelling, bruising, and rarely flaccid paralysis. Severe cases may result in weakness, droopy eyelids, and internal bleeding
• Symptomatic treatment may be necessary, which may include pain medication and wound care, but administration of antivenom (available only for other related species) is considered only when severe symptoms requiring hospital admissions are noted. The prognosis of Persian Horned Viper Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually excellent