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

• Atractaspis Scorteccii Snake Bite
• Scortecci's Burrowing Asp Snake Bite
• Somali Burrowing Adder Snake Bite

What is Somali Burrowing Asp Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Somali burrowing asp (Atractaspis scorteccii) is a venomous snake found distributed in some east-central regions of the African continent, notably in the countries of Somalia and Ethiopia. The Somali burrowing asp belongs to the Elapidae family, which generally includes slender and swift moving snakes
• It has a slender to moderately stout body with a short, pointed tail. Its head is typically black, small, conical, and indistinct from the neck, with a broad and flattened snout; the neck may present a broad white band. The snake has fairly large fangs that protrude from the corners of its mouth which appears partially-closed. This small and cylindrical snake usually ranges in size from 2-3 feet in length
• The body of the Somali burrowing asp is usually dark brown to black. Dark patches may be seen below each eyes. The snake’s belly is typically white that is scattered with dark brown edge scales. The snake is found across dry grasslands and semi-deserts inhabiting the sandy and stony terrains. It is difficult to spot the burrowing asp during the day unless it rains heavily
• The reptile is nocturnal and typically hunts during the night. It mostly feeds on lizards, other snakes, and small mammals. Since the fangs protrude out of its mouth, the Somali burrowing asp can strike without really opening their mouths (using one side fang too). The snake has a mild disposition and is rarely aggressive
• The reptile has a very mild disposition and mostly prefers to escape; it does not attempt to bite if 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
• Somali Burrowing Asp Bites are generally not known to result in fatalities from systemic envenomation (venom injection through a bite), from the presence of potent cardiotoxins and other compounds in the venom, even if the condition is inadvertently left untreated. The envenomation is usually mild to moderate
• The signs and symptoms of Somali Burrowing Asp Snake Bite may be non-specific and include pain 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 ischemia and myocardial infarction; convulsions may also be noted
• Currently, no suitable antivenom (or antivenin) is available for Somali Burrowing Asp 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 excellent; lethal bites are mostly not reported