The chromosome-level genome of Mesobuthus martensii provides insights into its evolution and the diversity of venom peptides

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  The chromosome-level genome of Mesobuthus martensii provides insights into its evolution and the diversity of venom peptides Abstract Mesobuthus martensii , the source species of the traditional Chinese medicine “Quanxie”, has long been utilized for its therapeutic properties. Venom peptides are recognized as the major active molecular basis of these pharmacological activities. Despite this, their development as therapeutic agents remains poorly explored. In this study, we performed an integrated multi-omics investigation to systematically explore the venom peptides of Mesobuthus martensii . We generated a chromosome-level genome assembly of Mesobuthus martensii using third-generation sequencing technologies, yielding a genome size of 1.08 Gb with a contig N50 of 46.46 Mb. Integrated genomic and transcriptomic analyses led to the identification of 51 putative novel venom peptide candidates. From the broader venom peptide set, five lysine- and arginine-rich candidates were select...

Compartment syndrome of upper limb following snake bite, a case report

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Compartment syndrome of upper limb following snake bite, a case report

Introduction: 

Snakebites, recognized as a neglected tropical disease by the WHO, cause significant morbidity and mortality globally. Although antivenom is the primary treatment, managing complications like compartment syndrome (CS) and soft tissue necrosis remains challenging. This case report describes a 39-year-old woman who developed CS following a green pit viper bite and subsequent antivenom administration, necessitating a fasciotomy.

Case: 

The patient sustained a bite to her right middle finger, receiving 10 vials of polyvalent anti-snake venom. The next day, she developed symptoms suggestive of CS, prompting an emergency fasciotomy. The procedure included volar and dorsal forearm releases, finger incisions, and compartment releases. She was discharged on day 20 with optimal hand function and instructed to continue physiotherapy.

Discussion: 

Snake venom contains toxic peptides and proteases that cause local and systemic effects, with severity influenced by venom quantity, bite location, and timely intervention. Upper extremity bites, particularly to the hand, are prone to CS due to the region’s vascularity and anatomy. Although CS after snakebites is rare, its symptoms can mimic local envenomation, requiring careful differentiation and urgent management to prevent permanent damage. Fasciotomy may be necessary if CS persists despite antivenom therapy, as demonstrated in our case.

Conclusion: 

Snakebites, particularly to the upper extremities, require careful monitoring for complications like CS. Timely diagnosis and fasciotomy are crucial to prevent limb loss and preserve function.



Bhattarai, Navin MSa; Dhakal, Prasesh MSa; Bhandari, Devendra MBBSb; Katwal, Srijana MBBSc,*; Bhandari, Shristi MBBSd; Shrestha, Shilu MSe. Compartment syndrome of upper limb following snake bite, a case report. Annals of Medicine & Surgery 87(9):p 6197-6200, September 2025. | DOI: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000003674