Response to specific Centruroides sculpturatus antivenom in 151 cases of scorpion stings

Review was made of the symptoms, treatment and outcome of 151 cases of severe envenomation by the scorpion Centruroides sculpturatus treated with antivenom, 1988-1989. The most frequent symptoms were restlessness, nystagmus, paresthesiae, hypersalivation, fasciculation, blurred vision and dysphagia with an average of four symptoms. Medications before antivenom, given to about half of the subjects, included antihistamines, sedatives, analgesics and epinephrine. In 71% of patients, symptoms were relieved within 30 minutes of receiving one vial. Immediate hypersensitivity reactions occurred in 8%, but were generally mild. Skin tests had a sensitivity of 96% and specificity of 68%. Delayed reactions were not addressed. In conclusion, the antivenom appears safe and effective.