A Review on Scorpionism in Iran

Area of Science:

• Zoology
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Scorpions are significant venomous animals in Iran.
• Scorpion stings are most prevalent in southern and southwestern regions.
• Understanding scorpion species distribution is crucial for public safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and catalog scorpion species responsible for stings in Iran.
• To map the geographical distribution of medically significant scorpion species.
• To assess the public health impact of scorpion envenomation across different provinces.

Main Methods:

• A mini-review of scorpion sting articles in Iran up to early 2018 was conducted.
• Sting agent species were identified for each geographical area.
• Geographical and provincial distribution data for each species were compiled.

Main Results:

• Twelve scorpion species were identified as causative agents of stings in Iran.
• Three species (Hemiscorpius lepturus, H. acanthocercus, and Androctonus crassicauda) are associated with fatal sting cases.
• Other species, while not deadly, cause frequent stings due to their prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Khuzestan province has the highest number of scorpion sting agents.
• Gilan and Mazandaran provinces have the lowest frequency of sting agents.
• Control and prevention programs are essential in high-prevalence areas like Khuzestan.