Renal Complications Following Snake Bite Envenomation

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Snakebite is a common health problem in tropics. The true incidence is not well documented and it varies from one region to another. Venous snakes belong to four families: Atractaspidae, Elapidae, Viperidae and Hydrophiadae. Different types of Russel viper are commonly found in southern part of Saudi Arabia. Viper bites are more common than other poisonous snakebites in humans. The World Health Organization has estimated that there is approximately 1,25,000 deaths among 2,50,000 poisonous snake bites worldwide every year, of which India accounts for 10,000 deaths. Systemic effect of venom includes coagulopathy, neurological abnormalities, musculo-skeletal defect and renal failure. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is an important consequence of snakebite and its proper supportive management after the antivenom administration is of utmost importance, for a good patient outcome