DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY & PHYSICS

ALBRECHT LAB

 
 

ENVENOMING

 

Clinical symptoms

Swelling - edema quickly develops around the bite. The edema progresses eventually involving the entire extremity. Generally, it will take approximately 8 hours for the edema to spread.

Ecchymosis ( the extravasation of blood underneath the skin) often appear in the area of the bite within a few hours. Raised portions of the skin (vesicules) may form within a few hours and are usually present at 24 hours. Hemorrhagic blebs are common. Necrosis (formation of dead tissue) may develop, necessitating amputation of an extremity.

Pain - frequently a complaint of the victim beginning shortly after the bite by most pit vipers.