Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
Plate 4.46
(A and B) Tiger keel-back, or yamakagashi (
Rhabdophis tigrinus
), Japan.
Although all of the fatal or life-threatening envenomations from this hazard level 1
colubroid species have occurred in Japan, there are occasional concerns regarding confused
identification of this natricid species with Asian garter snakes (also known as keel-backs),
Amphiesma
spp., in the commercial snake trade. As noted in envenomations caused by other
hazard 1 colubroids, acute renal injury with renal failure poorly responsive to dialysis may
occur after bites from this species. There is a limited supply of antivenom against this species.
(C and D) Clinical effects of life-threatening
R. tigrinus
envenomation.
The extensive
ecchymoses that may develop after envenomation by
R. tigrinus
is shown in Plate 4.46C. Plate
4.46D illustrates the results of a computerized axial tomographic (CAT) scan of the brain of
the victim of a fatal envenomation by
R. tigrinus
. There is a large brain hemorrhage involving
the left temporal and occipital lobes with intraventricular perforative involvement.
Plate 4.46A, photo copyright to S. Mishima; Plate 4.46B, photo copyright to Julian White;
Plate 4.46C and D, photos copyright to the estate of the late Yoshio Sawai.