In the field of toxicology, snake bites are recognized as a significant cause capable of mimicking brain death. A neurotoxic snakebite can manifest with a wide range of symptoms, causing asymptomatic cases to more severe presentations. Common symptoms include ptosis and complete external and internal ophthalmoplegia, which indicate paralysis of the eye muscles. In severe cases, the bite can lead to complete respiratory failure, necessitating urgent medical intervention. Here, we present a patient with a neuro paralytic snake bite with conditions mimicking brain death. The patient achieved full neurological recovery following treatment with polyvalent snake antivenom and supportive care. This case underscores the importance of considering the neuroparalytic effects of snake bites when assessing patients, as it may lead to a false diagnosis of brain death. Intensivists should carefully evaluate these potential effects before deciding to withdraw ventilatory supp]ort or consider organ donation.
Bordoloi et al. (Tue,) studied this question.