Deadliest sea snake

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The Deadliest Sea Snake: Enhydrina schistosa

Introduction to Enhydrina schistosa

Enhydrina schistosa, commonly known as the beaked sea snake, is widely recognized as the deadliest sea snake. This species is prevalent in coastal and inshore habitats across the Asian and Australian regions, where it is responsible for the majority of recorded deaths and injuries from sea snake bites. The beaked sea snake is particularly aggressive and poses a significant risk to fishermen and individuals wading in waters where it resides.

Venom Composition and Toxicity

The venom of Enhydrina schistosa is highly potent, containing neurotoxins and myotoxins that can cause severe physiological damage. The primary lethal components are postsynaptic neurotoxins, which bind almost irreversibly to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, blocking neuromuscular junctions and leading to respiratory failure. Additionally, myotoxic phospholipases A2 contribute to muscle pain, stiffness, and rhabdomyolysis, which can result in acute renal failure .

Clinical Manifestations of Envenomation

Envenomation by Enhydrina schistosa can lead to a range of severe symptoms. Common clinical manifestations include myalgia, elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels, myoglobinuria, hyperkalemia, and rhabdomyolysis. In severe cases, envenomation can result in cardiovascular collapse and death. For instance, a case study from Sri Lanka reported a fisherman who developed severe myalgia and high CK levels, another who experienced gross myoglobinuria and hyperkalemia, and a third individual who succumbed to cardiovascular collapse following severe rhabdomyolysis.

Management and Treatment of Sea Snake Bites

Immediate medical attention is crucial for sea snake bites. First aid measures include immobilization of the affected limb and compression of the envenomed area to slow venom spread. Transporting the victim to an emergency medical facility is essential for further treatment, which may involve artificial ventilation and hydration with crystalloid solutions. The only available sea snake antivenom is raised against Malaysian Enhydrina schistosa, which has shown cross-neutralization capabilities with other sea snake venoms, including Pelamis platura .

Conclusion

Enhydrina schistosa stands out as the deadliest sea snake due to its highly toxic venom and aggressive nature. Effective management of envenomation requires prompt medical intervention and the use of specific antivenom. Understanding the venom composition and clinical effects of this species is vital for improving treatment outcomes and reducing fatalities associated with sea snake bites.