Death to bite: a case report of dead snake envenoming and treatment

Background Envenoming by venomous snakes may induce serious pathophysiological manifestations and death in victims if timely treatment is not provided. Such abilities of snakes remain intact even after death and decapitation. In this article, three cases of envenoming caused by dead snakes that required antivenom therapy are presented from Assam, India. Case description Two incidents of envenoming by heads from decapitated Naja kaouthia were referred to the Demow Rural Community Health Centre, Sivasagar, Assam. Victims were clinically examined, and the necessary antivenom was administered. Another case of envenoming by a dead black krait was referred to the Boko 30-bed Community Health Centre/First Referral Unit, Kamrup, Assam. The victim exhibited neurotoxic symptoms and required ventilatory support. Antivenom was immediately administered, along with doses of neostigmine, glycopyrrolate, and calcium gluconate. The victim recovered and was discharged after 43 h of hospitalization. Conclusion These instances of envenoming by dead or decapitated snakes highlight the potential danger posed by venomous snakes even after death, emphasizing the necessity of extreme caution while handling them.