Treatment in Scorpion Sting: Which is Correct?

Abstract

Background: The scorpion sting is a condition that requires management in emergency department. Anti-allergic, analgesic and anti-venom administrations are commonly used, particularly in pediatric patients. In this study, it was aimed to present data from patients who presented with scorpion sting and underwent various treatments. Material and method: We retrospectively reviewed 50 patients who presented to our hospital with scorpion sting. Demographic characteristics, severity of clinical presentation, treatments employed and anti-venom administration were evaluated. In patients underwent anti-venom treatment, we evaluated whether or not anti-venom caused systemic signs or additional pathology. Results: Mean age was 9.88 ± 4.58 years in the study population. There were 18 girls (36%) and 32 boys (64%). It was found that electrocardiogram was performed in all patients and that there was sinus tachycardia in 6 patients (12%). No systemic sign was detected during followup. It was found that anti-venom treatment was used in only 7 patients (14%). No significant difference was detected between anti-venom treatment and other therapeutic modalities used in ED. Conclusion: Scorpion sting is one of the leading causes of insect bites presenting to pediatric emergency departments in Turkey. It was observed that, even in tertiary care settings, antivenom treatment is used in scorpion sting without systemic signs. Based on this study, no anti-venom indication was present in this patient group. Thus, anti-venom decision should be assessed by relevant unit or pediatric emergency clinicians in cases requiring anti-venom treatment. Unnecessary anti-venom use should be avoided by training clinicians in primary care.