Scorpion Stings and Antivenom Use in Arizona

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Emergency Medicine
• Dermatology

Background:

• Arizona's desert environment is home to the venomous bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus).
• Bark scorpion venom can lead to significant neuromotor disturbances.
• An effective antivenom for C. sculpturatus envenomation is available.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze scorpion sting calls in Arizona.
• To evaluate the clinical presentation and treatment of C. sculpturatus stings.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of antivenom for C. sculpturatus envenomation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 4398 scorpion sting calls to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center (APDIC) from 2017-2019.
• Clinical data collection from 593 patients treated at healthcare facilities.
• Review of antivenom administration and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• Pain and numbness were the most common initial complaints.
• Neuromotor signs included nystagmus, hypersalivation, and fasciculations.
• Antivenom was administered to 145 patients, primarily children, with 54.5% meeting recommended use criteria.

Conclusions:

• Antivenom treatment led to rapid symptom resolution.
• No immediate or delayed hypersensitivity reactions were observed with antivenom.
• Expanded antivenom availability is recommended in high-risk areas.