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Scorpion envenomation in children: an analysis of 99 cases

Mehmet Uluğ1, Yöntem Yaman, Ferda Yapici

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinic Microbiology, Ozel Omit Hospital, Eskişehir, Turkey.

The Turkish Journal of Pediatrics
|June 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Scorpion stings are a significant public health issue, especially for children. This study in Turkey highlights peak sting incidence in July among 6-10 year olds, with most stings on lower limbs, emphasizing the need for health education.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Scorpion envenomation poses a severe global health threat, disproportionately affecting children.
  • Understanding regional epidemiological patterns is crucial for effective public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the epidemiological profile of scorpion stings in Turkey's southeast Anatolia region.
  • To characterize clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective descriptive study design.
  • Analysis of scorpion sting cases from emergency units in Mardin and Midyat.
  • Data collection on demographics, sting location, clinical signs, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Peak incidence observed in July (36.4%), coinciding with high temperatures.
  • The 6-10 year age group comprised the majority of cases.
  • Most stings affected exposed extremities (92.9%), primarily lower limbs (58.6%).
  • Common symptoms included local pain, swelling, itching, malaise, dry mouth, sweating, and thirst.
  • Neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory complications were infrequent.
  • Overall mortality was low (10 per 1000 cases), with one recorded fatality.

Conclusions:

  • Findings provide valuable data for targeted health education and prevention strategies.
  • High incidence during warmer months underscores environmental risk factors.
  • The study emphasizes the importance of prompt medical attention for scorpion envenomation.

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