Question
Which of the following is true about poisoning by the snake shown in the image
A. Vasculotoxic.
B. Neurotoxic.
C. Cardiotoxic.
D. Haemotoxic.
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Correct Answer » B Explanation |
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Ans: B. Neurotoxic.
Common Krait is shown in the image.
The common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), also known as Indian krait or blue krait) is a species of venomous snake of the genus Bungarus found in the jungles of the Indian subcontinent.
The common krait’s venom consists mostly of powerful neurotoxins, which induce muscle paralysis. Clinically, its venom contains presynaptic and postsynaptic neurotoxins, which generally affect the nerve endings near the synaptic cleft of the brain.
According to clinical features, snakes are divided into :
A. Neurotoxic
- It includes elapids, i.e. cobra, krait and coral snake. Krait is the most common poisonous snake in india. These have minimal reaction locally, but produce strong neurotoxicity. They act on motor nerve cells, resembling poisoning with curare. There is weakness of legs and face. Muscle paralysis occurs in following order :- mouth (first) followed by throat and finally respiratory muscles. Cobra venom also produces convulsions (krait venom produces only paralysis).
B. Vasculotoxic (hematotoxic)
- It includes vipers. Viper venom contains hemolysins and thromboplasin which cause widspread endothelial damage and hemolysis. Locally at the site of bite, there is severe oozing of blood. There may be coagulation abnormalities with death due to hemorrhagic shock. Hematuria and hemoglobinuria occurs due to hemolysis.
C. Myotoxic (musculotoxic)
- These are sea snakes. Their venom produces generalized muscle pain, weakness, followed by polymyositis,myoglobinuria, hyperkalemia and increased muscle enzymes. Finally there is respiratory and renal failure.
