Neurotoxic snakes of the Americas.

ABSTRACT: Snake envenomation is a global problem and often a matter of life or death. Emergency treatment is not always readily available or effective. There are numerous neurotoxic snakes in the Americas, chiefly elapids; some crotalids have also evolved neurotoxic venom. The variability of neurotoxins found in snake venom within the same species makes development and choice of proper antivenom a major challenge that has not been completely addressed. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical effects, and current treatment of neurotoxic snake envenomation in the Americas.

SUBMITTER: Rolan TD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5762023 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature