Neurotoxic snake bite mimicking brain death

Neurotoxic snake bites are common in tropical countries, leading to hospital admissions due to symptoms ranging from mild ptosis to severe neuromuscular paralysis with respiratory failure. Among these, krait bites stand out for their potent neurotoxins, which can lead to a deceptive clinical picture mimicking brain death.
We present a case of krait envenomation where the patient presented to the emergency care unit, in a state of pseudo-coma, with fixed dilated pupils and absent brain stem reflexes, resembling brain death. Diagnosing such cases in emergency settings is challenging without proper history and diagnostic tests, often necessitating a high level of suspicion. By recognizing this mimicry, timely administration of antivenom and supportive measures can improve patient outcomes.