Abstract
Introduction: Exposure to animal venom produces clinical effects, the characteristics and severity of which will vary according to the animal, the amount of venom inoculated and patient factors. Some toxins have the capacity to affect directly or through indirect mechanisms, the functioning of the central, peripheral or autonomic nervous system.
Materials and methods: A non-systematic search was made in reference databases of available medical and scientific literature on animal poisoning and its neurological manifestations. Data were collected from clinical cases, laboratory studies, systematic reviews and subject reviews on the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of these envenomations.
Results: Neurotoxins present in the venom of snakes, scorpions, spiders and marine animals can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, from localized pain to autonomic dysfunction, seizures, paralysis and respiratory failure. There are practically no data on the behavior of this type of envenomations in Colombia.
Discussion: Early identification, knowledge of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and proper management of animal poisoning are essential to improve the prognoses and recovery of patients. Treatment includes antivenoms use, supportive measures according to the nature and severity of the envenomation.
Conclusions: Research, training and resources should be implemented to improve the capacity of health professionals in the comprehensive approach to animal envenomation, as well as to know the species that inhabit the Colombian territory, their toxins and the clinical characteristics of their envenomation, with a view to improving the prognosis and recovery of affected patients.
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