Scorpion sting sydrome - a ten year experience

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Emergency Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Scorpion stings are a significant public health concern in arid and semi-arid regions.
• Effective management protocols are crucial to mitigate morbidity and mortality associated with scorpion envenomation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the risk of morbidity and mortality from scorpion stings in Riyadh.
• To identify demographic factors associated with systemic toxicity.
• To establish evidence-based guidelines for scorpion sting patient management.

Main Methods:

• A 10-year retrospective review of patients presenting with scorpion stings.
• Data collection included patient demographics, presenting symptoms, clinical signs, and treatment outcomes.
• Statistical analysis to identify risk factors for systemic toxicity.

Main Results:

• Out of 434 cases, local pain was the most common complaint (92%).
• Systemic toxicity occurred in 25.6% of patients, with anxiety-related symptoms being most frequent.
• Hypertension and tachycardia were common systemic signs; serious envenomation requiring admission was rare (<1%), and no deaths occurred.
• High-risk groups for systemic toxicity included children (<8 years), adults (>30 years, especially >50 years), and those with pre-existing hypertension, diabetes, or multiple stings.

Conclusions:

• Scorpion envenomation in Riyadh has a low risk of severe outcomes.
• Management should focus on symptomatic treatment and observation for most patients.
• Antivenom administration should be reserved for cases with clear signs of severe systemic toxicity.