Venomous animals account for much morbidity and mortality worldwide. Venomous snakes are estimated to inflict 400000 bites annually resulting in approximately 40000 deaths. In the past it was estimated that mortality from venomous snakebite approached 25 percent. Because of availability of antivenin and advances in emergency and critical care, mortality rates were decrease.
Physical and laboratory examination at presentation does not reliably indicate an insignificant envenomation. Physician should observe patient for at least 8 h. Patients with severe or life-threatening bites and patients receiving antivenin should be admitted to an intensive care unit. The general wards are appropriate for patients with mild or moderate envenomation who have completed or do not require further antivenin therapy. Patients with dry bites who have been observed for at least 8 h may be discharged. They should return if pain, swelling or bleeding develops.
Keywords: Snakebite, antivenin therapy