Local envenoming by the Schokari sand racer, Psammophis schokari Forskål, 1775 (Serpentes, Psammophiidae) and a brief review of reported bites by sand racers (Psammophis spp.). (15th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ineich, Ivan; Girard, Francis; Weinstein, Scott A.
• Is Part Of: Toxicon. Volume 185(2020)
• Page Start: 72
• Page End: 75
• Publication Date: 2020-10-15
• Subjects: Non-front fanged snake -- Colubroid -- Psammophiidae -- Envenomation -- Snake bites -- Psammophis spp. -- Sand snakes; Toxins -- Periodicals; Venom -- Periodicals; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0041-0101

Abstract

Abstract: A recent case of a bite by a psammophiid snake, Psammophis schokari, is described and analyzed. This is the first report of local envenoming by this species. The 1 m long P. schokari inflicted a protracted bite on the third digit, right hand of the male 59 year-old victim who developed mild, but locally progressive edema and persistent pain; full resolution required almost three months. All documented cases of bites by snakes of the genus Psammophis are briefly reviewed and discussed. Finally, we encourage the use of a standardized method to describe the observed symptoms of bites by non-front-fanged colubroid snakes (NFFCs). Such bites are rare compared to those described for front-fanged snakes (e.g. Viperidae, Elapidae). Published data are still often comprised of anecdote or second-hand information. Whenever possible, formal medical evaluation of victims bitten by NFFCs should be performed in order to establish a medical risk and management profile for each species. Highlights: Description of a bite by the non-front-fanged colubroid snake (NFFCs) Psammophis schokari (Psammophiidae). All documented cases of bites by snakes of the genus Psammophis are reviewed and discussed. Recommendations are provided for medical evaluation of NFFCs bites to establish risk and management profiles for each species.