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Deaths from snake bite in Australia, 1981-1991
1CSL Limited, Parkville, Vic.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|December 7, 1992
Summary
Australian snake bite fatalities are underreported, with brown snakes causing the most deaths. Proper first aid and prompt antivenom administration are crucial for survival.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Herpetology
- Public Health
Background:
- Snakebite envenomation remains a significant public health concern in Australia.
- Understanding fatality patterns is crucial for improving clinical management and prevention strategies.
Observation:
- A retrospective analysis of snake bite fatalities reported to the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories (CSL) over a 10-year period was conducted.
- Eighteen deaths were attributed to snake bites, with brown snakes (genus Pseudonaja) being the most frequent cause (11 deaths).
Findings:
- Victim demographics revealed a higher incidence in males, often associated with handling snakes.
- Autopsies frequently showed no significant pathological findings, though venom was detected in nine cases.
- Sudden collapse and death were characteristic of brown snake bites, with cerebral hemorrhage noted in some tiger and brown snake envenomations.
Implications:
- Inadequate investigation and reporting of snake bite deaths highlight a need for improved surveillance.
- The high fatality rate associated with certain species underscores the importance of immediate and correct first aid, including venom absorption delay.
- Prompt administration of appropriate antivenom is critical, and potential iatrogenic factors like adrenaline use require careful consideration in managing severe envenomations.