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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