Coral Snake Envenomation Clinical Presentation

Updated: Aug 24, 2022
  • Author: Stephen L Thornton, MD; Chief Editor: Joe Alcock, MD, MS  more...
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Presentation

Physical Examination

Impending respiratory failure signs and symptoms include the following:

  • Respiratory distress

  • Pharyngeal spasm

  • Hypersalivation

  • Cyanosis

  • Trismus

Neurologic dysfunction signs and symptoms include the following:

  • Altered mental status

  • Ptosis

  • Generalized weakness

  • Muscle fasciculations

Cardiovascular collapse signs and symptoms include the following:

  • Hypotension

  • Tachycardia

In addition to a brief generalized examination, the skin should be carefully examined in an effort to identify what may be very tiny puncture wounds at the bite site.  These may be hard to see and many bite sites are never identified..  Generally, there is little in the way of other local findings (little bleeding, ecchymosis or swelling).

A careful neurological examination should be done in an effort to identify any evidence of early venom-induced dysfunction.  Particular attention should be paid to the cranial nerves (watching for any evidence of bulbar weakness) and to motor strength (including respiratory muscles).