We report on the snakebite injury of a 27-year-old male patient by a Saharan horned viper in his left middle finger. General symptoms (thrombocytopenia, fibrinolysis and rhabdomyolysis) were leading and required observation at close intervals on intensive care unit and the application of a specific antiserum. At the finger a local necrectomy for the haemorrhagic necrosis was needed, followed by split-skin grafting for tissue coverage.