B3.056 Snake Bite Case Flashcards
what causes bleeding from the eyes?
low platelet counts
what is the result of cobra venom on the alternative complement pathway?
it activates it
massive activation causes MAC formation and lysis of RBC and platelets
what complement protein does snake venom mimic?
C3b
what is the function of this C3b substitute?
binds Factor B with great affinity
not controlled by normal regulatory mechanisms
what is meant by monovalent antiserum?
acts against only one venom
how can an antiserum cause illness?
Ab’s to the antiserum can activate the classical complement pathway
-thus you can get sick from an antidote
what is HRF?
homologous restriction factor
a complementary regulatory protein found on the surface of human erythrocytes and other cell types
blocks the lytic action of the membrane attack complex (MAC) of complement when incorporated into a membrane
why does HRF not stop destruction in the case of serum sickness?
it is overwhelmed
does cobra venom impact HRF?
no
HRF acts on MAC, once venom has already exerted its full effect
