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Information

Epidemiology: Only ~30 of the ~1000 species of scorpions produce potentially lethal venoms, causing >5000 deaths worldwide each year. Among scorpions in the United States, only the bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus or C. exilicauda) in the Southwest produces a potentially lethal venom.

Clinical features: The severity of symptoms depends on the particular scorpion species. For the U.S. bark scorpion, symptoms progress to maximal severity in ~5 h and typically subside within 1-2 days, although pain and paresthesias can last for weeks.

Treatment: Scorpion Stings

  • Stings of nonlethal species require at most ice packs, analgesics, or antihistamines.
  • In severe envenomations, aggressive supportive care should include pressure dressings and cold packs to decrease the absorption of venom.
  • A continuous IV infusion of midazolam helps control agitation and involuntary muscle movements.
  • C. sculpturatus antivenom administered IV rapidly reverses cranial nerve dysfunction and muscular symptoms.

Outline

Section 2. Medical Emergencies