Envenomation by 'dead' snakes: a review

Abstract

Venomous snakes are a potential hazard even after their death. Dead snakes or their severed heads can inflict bites under various bizarre circumstances and may result in envenomation. In this review, an effort has been made to discuss the circumstances under which envenomation from dead snakes can occur, the incidence and pathomechanics of such envenomation, clinical manifestations and management and preventive measures, as well as a review of the literature on this unique mode of snake envenomation.

Keywords: dead snakes; decapitated head; envenomation; fang; preserved snake heads; snake bite.