Venomous animals. (February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Warrell, David A.
• Is Part Of: Medicine. Volume 44:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: 120
• Page End: 124
• Publication Date: 2016-02
• Subjects: antivenom -- antivenom reactions -- autonomic storm -- haemostatic disturbances -- hot water treatment -- hymenoptera sting anaphylaxis -- neurotoxicity -- prevention -- respiratory paralysis -- rhabdomyolysis -- soft tissue necrosis; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine -- Périodiques; Médecine factuelle -- Périodiques; Medicine; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; 610
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mpmed.2015.11.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-3039

Abstract

Abstract: Every year, snake-bites kill more than 100, 000 people, while survivors suffer physical and mental sequelae; insects cause over 5000 anaphylactic deaths, scorpion-stings kill more than 1000 and spiders and jellyfish kill hundreds. Aquatic venomous animals include sea-snakes, fish, jellyfish, corals, cone shells, blue-ringed octopuses and sea urchins. Specific antidotes – hyperimmune serum antivenoms – are manufactured for serious envenoming. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is essential treatment for anaphylaxis. Cardiorespiratory and kidney failure require supportive treatment. Surgical intervention is rarely needed. Prevention is all important; community education can reduce risk by encouraging the use of protective clothing, lights after dark, bed nets and urgent medical treatment rather than traditional remedies.