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

• Sumatra Pitviper Snake Bite
• Sumatran Tree Viper Snake Bite
• Trimeresurus Sumatranus Snake Bite

What is Sumatran Pitviper Snake Bite? (Definition/Background Information)

• The Sumatran pitviper (Trimeresurus sumatranus) is a moderately venomous snake found in Southeast Asia. It is seen in the countries of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. 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 Sumatran pitviper can grow from under 3 feet to nearly 5.5 feet in length; the males being smaller in size than females. It is a nocturnal reptile that preys on small mammals (including tree rodents), frogs, lizards (geckos), and small birds. It is found at altitudes of up to 3,300 feet (about 1,000 m) and inhabits lowland primary and secondary forests. The snake is also found on large plants and small trees
• The snake has a medium-to-stout cylindrical body and a moderate-sized tail. The triangular-shaped head is elongated with a short snout and black streaks at the side of the mouth; the snake’s head is distinct from its neck. The body color of the Sumatran pitviper is normally bright-green with dark green crossbands and pink to brown spots (and so is the tail); the belly is often green-gray to light brown with dark spots nearer to the tail
• Human contact with the pitviper is not uncommon; the snake is known to frequent cultivations, especially pepper and cocoa plantations. It is a very aggressive reptile that can strike furiously and rapidly when disturbed. Sumatran Pitviper Snake Bites can often cause envenomation (venom injection) that may result in deaths without treatment
• The signs and symptoms of Sumatran Pitviper Snake Bite may include moderate to severe localized effects such as pain at the bite site, swelling, and blistering. Systemic symptoms may include tissue necrosis, headache, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, seizures, and collapse. It is believed that the venom may be a mix of hemotoxins that can cause variable symptoms including severe bleeding issues and shock
• 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 Sumatran Pitviper Snake Bite with prompt and effective therapy is usually good; without proper treatment, deaths have been reported