ABSTRACT
Snake venoms contain complex mixtures of various organic materials. A basic understanding of venoms is necessary to understand the rationale for certain treatment regimens. Hundreds of research papers and monographs have been written on the subject of snake venoms by protein biochemists, toxinologists, toxicologists, physiologists, pharmacologists, immunologists, and medical scientists. The primary toxins of snake venoms are proteins and peptides. Venom platelet-active principles include proteins, peptides, and glycoproteins that may either stimulate or inhibit platelet action. Aside from the importance of their poisonous effects, snake venoms have proven to be valuable tools in the study of nerve conduction, blood coagulation, tumor growth, and enzymology. Great diversity exists in mammalian resistance to snake venoms. Birds apparently have no immunity against snake venoms, even though raptorial birds may attack and kill venomous snakes.
