Symptoms, diagnosis and therapy of snakebites [Symptome, Diagnostik und Therapie von Schlangenbissen]

Snakebites requiring medical treatment are rare in Europe; however, due to the existence of zoos and private collections of snakes, envenomation by exotic species can also occur. The main toxic effects are correlated with the morphology of the snake fangs. The bites of European vipers (Viperidae) are characterized by local tissue reactions, those of cobras (Elapidae) are neurotoxic leading to peripheral nerve block (paralysis) and the bites of pit vipers (Crotalidae) are often hemotoxic (coagulation). Systemic envenomation can be classified under the term hyperdynamic shock. Development of shock symptoms depends on toxin concentration, toxin character, bite localization, bite depth, and physical activity after envenomation due to venom redistribution. Diagnostic measures include laboratory analyses, clinical assessment and the exact classification of the snake species which is important for administering a specific snake antiserum therapy. © 2014, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.