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North American Envenomation Syndromes
George P Warpinski1, Anne-Michelle Ruha1
1Department of Medical Toxicology, Banner University Medical Center Phoenix, 1012 East Willetta Street, Fl 2, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA; University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America
|April 24, 2022
Summary
This review details North American snake and arthropod envenomation syndromes, covering epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management. It highlights varying syndrome severity and antivenom use for conditions like rattlesnake bites.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Herpetology
- Arachnology
Background:
- North America harbors diverse venomous species including Crotalinae snakes (cottonmouths, copperheads, rattlesnakes), coral snakes, Latrodectus and Loxosceles spiders, and Centruroides sculpturatus scorpions.
- These species produce distinct envenomation syndromes with varying clinical manifestations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of North American envenomation syndromes.
- To discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of these syndromes.
- To detail the indications and side effects of available antivenoms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of envenomation syndromes caused by North American venomous snakes and arthropods.
- Synthesis of information on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment.
- Focused review on antivenom therapy, including indications and adverse effects.
Main Results:
- Distinct envenomation syndromes are produced by various North American venomous species.
- Clinical manifestations and severity of envenomations vary significantly.
- Effective management strategies exist, with antivenoms playing a crucial role.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the specific envenomation syndromes is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Prompt and appropriate management, including judicious use of antivenoms, improves patient outcomes.
- Further research may refine treatment protocols and antivenom efficacy for North American envenomations.
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