To Study the Clinical Features, Course & Complications of Scorpion Sting In the Paediatric Age Group

Abstract

Introduction: Scorpion envenomation is an important public health hazard in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Envenomation by scorpions can result in a wide range of clinical effects, including, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity and respiratory dysfunction. Out of 1500 scorpion species known to exist, about 30 are of medical importance. India is a country where agriculture forms the infrastructure of the nation’s economy. The majority of land is under green belts for cultivation or is occupied by dense forests. Increased deforestation in recent years have increased the exposure of the tribal and other people living in rural areas to various forms of wild life. This lead to increased incidences of various bites and stings. Aim: To study the clinical features, course, and complications of scorpion sting. Methodology: It was descriptive observational type of study, in which all the children admitted for scorpion sting in Our hospital during the study period of 11month and who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. Result: Common physical signs noted were breathlessness, tachycardia and hypertension. Hypertension was noted in 31% of cases. Bradycardia was noted in only 4 patients (30.7%) at admission. Peripheral circulatory failure (PCF) was the commonest complication encountered in 3 cases (8.5%) and mortality was noted in 14.29% of cases.  Conclusion: The Study concludes that early and effective prazosin therapy, good supportive care, close monitoring and management of complications can limit the resulting morbidity and mortality significantly.