Cross‐Reactivity of Antivenom

Abstract

Antivenom cross‐reactions have been studied using immunologic techniques, immunodiffusion, immunoelectrophoresis, immunoblotting and ELISA. Cross precipitation does not necessarily mean that there is cross protection. However, a cross protection is generally observed between closely related species. Cross‐reactivity of monovalent antivenoms and polyvalent antivenoms among various venoms are described. The results strongly suggest the presence of genus specificity in each antivenom. Cross‐reactions of antivenoms are difficult to foretell and they necessitate individual verification. Knowledge of cross‐reactivity of antivenoms is a very important tool to identify for phylogenic relationships of snake species and variation in venoms, and to be a guide for effective treatment of snake bite.