Neurotoxic snake bite in pregnancy

Abstract

Neurotoxic snake bites may cause paralysis within 1–8 h. Appropriate management includes early and adequate volumes of antivenom as well as ventilatory support. This case study describes the management of a pregnant woman who was bitten on a farm in rural South Africa and transferred to an academic hospital, 300 km away. An approach to the management of snake bites in pregnancy is discussed as well as a review of the current known literature of venomous snakes and the use of antivenom in pregnancy. This report aims to encourage further reporting of snake bites in pregnancy.