Bothrops Snakebite Envenomings in the Amazon Region

AbstractPurpose of ReviewSnakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease with a high burden in the Amazon basin. Our review aimed to give information about the epidemiology and the management of SB in the Amazon region.Recent FindingsThe Amazon basin, which comprises the largest portion of tropical rainforest on earth, includes territories of nine South American countries. The Amazon harbors a rich herpetofauna, among which the species of theBothrops genus (family Viperidae) cause the highest number of bites and envenomings. The management of snakebite envenomings poses a difficult challenge for the public health systems of these countries for several reasons: bites occur in remote rural locations far from urban centers and health facilities; there are transportation difficulties for; health posts and personnel are in insufficient numbers; and antivenoms are insufficiently available in some regions. In addition, the species causing the highest number of accidents, i.e.Bothrops atrox, often causes severe envenomings.SummaryThe present review summarizes the main aspects of envenomings byBothrops sp. snakes in the Amazonia, including the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and therapy of envenomings. In a context of global efforts to reduce the impact of snakebite envenomings, there is a need for international cooperative efforts by public health authorities and civil society in these countries.
Source: Current Tropical Medicine Reports - Category: Tropical Medicine Source Type: research