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ID4U Episode 23 Snake Envenomation
Season 3 · Episode 3

ID4U Episode 23 Snake Envenomation

ID4U - Infectious Disease Podcasts for Users of the CMES program · Jessica Pelletier

February 28, 202633m 14s

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Show Notes

Dr. Bri Bennett, Dr. Kakande Reagan, and Dr. Jessica Pelletier discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, management, and prevention of snake envenomation - a neglected tropical disease.

Take-Home Points:

  • Snakebites cause major global death and disability, especially in LMICs.
  • Most dangerous bites come from vipers and elapids.
  • Venom effects fall into three categories: cytotoxic, hemotoxic, and neurotoxic.
  • Diagnosis is clinical; 20WBCT helps assess coagulopathy.
  • Antivenom is the only specific treatment—give early when indicated.
  • Avoid harmful first aid (tourniquets, cutting, sucking).
  • Immobilize the limb and seek urgent medical care.
  • Supportive care (airway, fluids, monitoring) saves lives.
  • Do not perform fasciotomy.
  • Encourage rehab and follow‑up to prevent long‑term disability.

You can view the full show notes and references here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HJ-Mo-3rOZzSr_wVGHn3y0FKq5pSZGWJ1E0Iaf5aMjQ/edit?usp=sharing

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