Dr. Bri Bennett, Dr. Kakande Reagan, and Dr. Jessica Pelletier discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, management, and prevention of snake envenomation - a neglected tropical disease.

Take-Home Points:

• Snakebites cause major global death and disability, especially in LMICs.
• Most dangerous bites come from vipers and elapids.
• Venom effects fall into three categories: cytotoxic, hemotoxic, and neurotoxic.
• Diagnosis is clinical; 20WBCT helps assess coagulopathy.
• Antivenom is the only specific treatment—give early when indicated.
• Avoid harmful first aid (tourniquets, cutting, sucking).
• Immobilize the limb and seek urgent medical care.
• Supportive care (airway, fluids, monitoring) saves lives.
• Do not perform fasciotomy.