Case Report
Envenomation by the red-tailed coral snake (Micrurus mipartitus) in Colombia
Carlos A. Cañas1*, Fernando Castro-Herrera2 and Santiago Castaño-Valencia2 [ + show more ]
Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins including Tropical Diseases (2017) 23:9
Received: 21 September 2016 | Accepted: 4 February 2017 | Published: 14 February 2017
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40409-017-0100-4
Received: 21 September 2016 | Accepted: 4 February 2017 | Published: 14 February 2017
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40409-017-0100-4
Abstract
Background: Although the red-tailed coral snake (Micrurus mipartitus) is widely distributed in Colombia and its venom is highly neurotoxic and life threatening, envenomation by this species is rare. Therefore, this report may shed some light on the clinical presentation of M. mipartitus bites. Case presentations: Herein, we describe two cases of patients bitten by red-tailed coral snakes, illustrating the clinical presentation of the victims, the outcomes and treatment provided. Conclusion: Envenomation caused by M. mipartitus provokes predicable neurotoxicity, and its treatment should be based on respiratory support and use of specific antivenom.
Keywords: Red-tailed coral snake, Micrurus mipartitus, snake envenomation, Colombia