ABSTRACT
Latin: Agkistrodon contortrix. Venom: nucleic acid/acetylcholineases, serotonin (5-HT), kinins, phospholipases, collaginase, hyaluronidase — a “mosaic of antigens.” Diagnosis: Hemorrhagic blisters, proximal edema, minimal systemic toxicity. Antidote: Crotalidae polyvalent antivenom (CPA) now replaced by crotalid-specic F-antibody fragments (Fabs) antivenom (CroFAB®). Treatment: Tetanus toxoid, antibiotics (cephalosporins > penicillin), conservative wound management.
