Rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of skeletal muscle and is the result of actions of the venom of certain snakes. It is unknown in the brown snake group but is not uncommon in tiger snake and taipan envenomations. The process can only be effectively treated using the appropriate antivenom. Adequate hydration status should be ensured and myalgia may be combated with appropriate analgesia. The process of myolysis results in the breakdown product of myoglobin which, being filtered from the bloodstream may cause some degree of renal failure.
Last updated: July 2005
