ANTIVENOMOUS SERUM Meaning and
Definition
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Antivenomous serum is a specialized medical product used for the treatment of venomous snakebites and bites from other venomous creatures. It is a serum derived from the blood of animals immunized with specific venoms, such as snake venom, scorpion venom, or spider venom. This serum contains antibodies that neutralize the toxins released by these venomous creatures.
When a venomous creature bites, it injects venom into the victim's body, which can potentially cause severe damage or even death. Antivenomous serum works by providing immediate immunity to the venom, helping to counteract its effects. When administered, the serum's antibodies attach to the venom molecules, rendering them harmless and preventing them from causing further harm.
The production of antivenomous serum involves the careful extraction of the venom and subsequent immunization of animals such as horses, sheep, or goats. These animals are injected with small doses of venom over a period of time, which stimulates their immune systems to produce antibodies. The animal's blood is then collected, and the serum containing the antibodies is separated and processed for medical use.
Antivenomous serum plays a critical role in emergency medical situations where prompt treatment is necessary to counteract the effects of venom. It is administered intravenously or via a muscle injection and should be given as quickly as possible after a venomous bite occurs. The serum has proven to be a life-saving measure, reducing the symptoms and complications associated with venomous bites, and improving the chances of survival for the affected individual.
Etymology of ANTIVENOMOUS SERUM
The word "antivenomous" is derived from the combination of two words: "anti" and "venomous". The word "anti-" is a prefix that means "against" or "opposite of". The term "venomous" refers to something that is poisonous or capable of injecting venom. Thus, "antivenomous" implies something that acts against or counteracts venom.
The term "serum" refers to a liquid component of blood that contains various proteins, antibodies, and other substances. In the context of "antivenomous serum", it specifically refers to a therapeutic substance derived from blood that is used to neutralize the effects of venom in cases of snakebite or other venomous animal bites.
