Bites of Venomous Snakes

Abstract

At least 2000 persons are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of bites from venomous snakes encountered in North America, but the same principles apply to management of snakebites elsewhere in the world. The review summarizes the complications of envenomation and explains the current recommendations for the use of antivenoms. It explains how to distinguish venomous from nonvenomous snakes.