Epidemiological, Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Scorpion Envenomation in Batman, Turkey: An Analysis of 120 Cases

OBJECTIVE: Scorpion envenomation is common in and around Batman. The aim of this study is to describe the circumstances and clinical effects of stings in south east of Turkey scorpions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and twenty patients with scorpion sting were collected prospectively from presentations to emergency departments of Batman State Hospital from March 2007 to October 2007. The following information were prospectively recorded: demographics, circumstances of the sting, sting site, local and system ic effects, vital signs, past medical history, and the presence of shock RESULTS: 120 patients (75 females and 45 males), with a mean age of 33.6 +/- 15.1 (range 16-80) were included in the study. The majority (36.7%) of stings occurred between 0600 and 1200. Of stings, 61.7% occurred indoors. Of cases, 41.6% were stung while they were working. The most common region (27.5%) stung by scorpions was hand-fingers. The most common symptom occurred in cases was immediate localized pain (97.5%), and was severe in 70 cases (58.3%). Other local effects included red mark/redness (65%), tenderness (40%), numbness (51.7%) and edema (25.8%). Sweating was the most common minor systemic effects that occurred in 16.7% of cases. Cardiac dysfunction, myocardial damage and deaths secondary to major systemic envenoming were not determined in any patient. CONCLUSION: Scorpion stings occurred in and around Batman region do not appear to cause severe or life-threatening effects. Most stings occurred indoors and at midday. Hand-fingers were the common body section that was stung. Females were mostly stung by scorpions.