Clinical and immunological aspects of envenomations by Bothrops snakes

Luna KPO (1, 2), da Silva MB (2), Pereira VRA (3)

(1) Department of Biology, University of Paraíba, Campina Grande, Paraíba State, Brazil; (2) Department of Biophysics, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco State, Brazil; (3) Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, FIOCRUZ, Recife, Recife, Pernambuco State, Brazil.

Abstract: Accidents caused by snakes, especially in tropical and subtropical countries, still constitute a serious public health problem due to the lack of knowledge of health professionals and the precariousness of health systems in the regions where most accidents occur. Snake venoms contain a range of molecules that may provoke local swelling, pain, renal and respiratory insufficiencies. The study of the effects of each molecule on humans can help the development of complementary therapy. Similarly, the knowledge of clinical aspects of envenomations provides a better identification and implementation of appropriate treatment. In addition, to understand Bothrops envenomations and improve the therapeutic strategy, it is necessary to understand and study the role of important inflammatory mediators, particularly nitric oxide (NO), cytokines and the complement system.

Key words: snakes, envenomations, clinical aspects, immunology.

COPYRIGHT

© CEVAP 2011

SUBMISSION STATUS

Received: January 21, 2011.

Accepted: March 17, 2011.

Abstract published online: March 21, 2011.

Full paper published online: May 31, 2011.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

There is no conflict.

CORRESPONDENCE TO

KARLA P. O. LUNA, Av. Moraes Rego, 1235, Cidade Universitária, Recife, PE, 50670-420, Brazil. Phone: +55 81 2101 2631. Email: karlaceatox@yahoo.com.br.