Differential Hematotoxic Activity of Southeast Asian Pit Viper Venoms: The Cross-Neutralizing Effect of Available Antivenoms

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  Image Credit: Creative Commons (some rights reserved) CC BY-NC Photo 111998430, (c) Nicholas Hess Differential Hematotoxic Activity of Southeast Asian Pit Viper Venoms: The Cross-Neutralizing Effect of Available Antivenoms Abstract Background/Objectives : Pit vipers (subfamily Crotalinae) are responsible for a large proportion of snakebite envenoming cases in Southeast Asia. Envenomation by these snakes commonly causes hematotoxic effects, including platelet dysfunction and coagulation disturbances. Although antivenom remains the mainstay of treatment, species-specific antivenoms are not available for several regional pit viper species. This study evaluated the hematotoxic activities of selected Southeast Asian pit viper venoms and the cross-neutralizing capacity of commercially available antivenoms.  Methods : Venoms from five medically important pit viper species— Calloselasma rhodostoma ,  Trimeresurus albolabris ,  T. hageni ,  T. purpureomaculatus , ...

Severe Viper Envenomation: A Case Report From Portugal

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Severe Viper Envenomation: A Case Report From Portugal

Abstract

Snakebite envenomation is uncommon in Portugal but may lead to significant morbidity when systemic toxicity develops. We report a case of a 57-year-old woman who presented with hypotension, progressive limb edema, and venom-induced coagulopathy following a viper bite. The progression of edema, together with systemic toxicity, prompted early antivenom administration and transfer to an intermediate care unit, with a second dose required in response to persistent edema. Supportive management included fluid resuscitation, limb elevation, and empirical antibiotic therapy for persistent fever. The patient showed progressive clinical and laboratory improvement, ultimately achieving full recovery. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of systemic toxicity and timely antivenom therapy to prevent severe complications associated with viper envenomation.

Vitó Madureira B, Prucha Leite N, Costa D, et al. (January 23, 2026) Severe Viper Envenomation: A Case Report From Portugal. Cureus 18(1): e102157. doi:10.7759/cureus.102157