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

• Dwarf Rattlesnake Bite
• North American Smaller Rattlesnake Bite
• Sistrurus Miliarius Snake Bite

What is Pygmy Rattlesnake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is a venomous snake that ranges in size from nearly 1.5 feet to slightly over 2.5 feet in length. The rattlesnake belongs to the sub-species 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
• This terrestrial snake is found in the United States of America, especially in the states of South and North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, and Tennessee. Three subspecies of pygmy rattlesnakes are recognized
• The snake generally inhabits open areas such as meadows, grasslands, woodlands, areas of low vegetation, marshes, river basins, and flood plains, at elevations up to 1,600 feet (500 m). This diurnal reptile hunts frogs, small mammals (rodents), lizards, and large insects and spiders
• The body of the snake is fairly heavy and cylindrical that ends in a long thin tail containing segmented rattles. The head is broad with larger scales (unlike the body scales) and distinct from its neck; no patterns or stripes are observed on the side of the head. The body of the pygmy rattlesnake is usually dark brown, black, or blue-gray with large blotches on the top and smaller ones along the sides. The belly of the snake is usually lighter gray or white with darker spots
• Pygmy Rattlesnake Bites involving humans are not uncommon. The snake has a generally mild disposition but is known to strike if sufficiently provoked/disturbed. Prior to biting, the snake may display warning signs such as rapid coiling of its body, raised head and body posture, and making hissing and rattling sounds
• Due to its small size, the amount of venom injected per bite is low; it does not also cause any serious envenomation in humans. Nevertheless, a bite from a Pygmy rattlesnake can result in envenomation (venom injection), although deaths are not reported. The snake venom is a potent mix of hemotoxins and other compounds that may cause local reaction (usually minimal and mild)
• The signs and symptoms of the Pygmy Rattlesnake Bite may include mild pain, swelling, blistering, and tissue necrosis at the bite site. Occasionally, the venom may impair blood coagulation and breakdown the red blood cells, necessitating longer hospitalization stays, particularly in children
• Early administration of suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is the mainstay of treatment in case of significant symptoms. Symptomatic treatment may include wound care, use of pain medication, blood transfusion, and peritoneal dialysis, as required. The prognosis of Pygmy Rattlesnake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; lethal bites have not been documented