Bitten by the “Flying” Tree Snake, Chrysopelea Paradisi

First Authenticated Case of Sri Lankan Flying Snake (Chrysopelea taprobanica) Bite

“…In this patient, signs and symptoms of the C taprobanica bite were limited to mild local effects and are likely to be effects of the secretions (venom) from the Duvernoy's gland of the snake. No local or systemic envenoming signs were observed in patients bitten by C paradisi 6 or C ornata . 7 However, moderate local pain radiating along the lower limb and numbness that persisted for days had been observed in a patient bitten on her right middle toe by C pelias .…”

“…5 The observed transient prolongation of whole blood clotting time does not confirm presence of a coagulopathy, as the laboratory clotting time performed at the same time was found within the normal range. However, transient derangement of the coagulation profile had also been previously observed in a victim of C paradise, 6 and therefore, such activity in C taprobanica venom cannot be completely excluded.…”

“…The latter two species are present in Sri Lanka whereas C taprobanica is endemic to Sri Lanka. Reports on bites caused by these snakes appear to be limited to C pelias , 5 C paradisi , 6 and C ornata . 3 Basic characteristics of the flying snakes remain unexplored, 6 and hence, clinical reporting of the authenticated bites becomes important.…”

“…Reports on bites caused by these snakes appear to be limited to C pelias , 5 C paradisi , 6 and C ornata . 3 Basic characteristics of the flying snakes remain unexplored, 6 and hence, clinical reporting of the authenticated bites becomes important. Here, we report an authenticated C taprobanica bite from Sri Lanka that appears to be the first such case.…”