CLINICAL PROFILE OF SCORPION ENVENOMATION IN CHILDREN - ONE YEAR EXPERIENCE IN AN URBAN REFERRAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Scorpion envenomation is a
common emergency in children. Objective-
To study the clinical presentation,
course, complications and outcome of
scorpion sting envenomation in children.
Methodology - Retrospective analysis of
all the scorpion sting case sheets for one
year. Case sheets were analyzed for history,
clinical features, hourly vitals, investigations,
treatment modalities and outcome.
During the study period, 72 cases
were admitted and treated with the following
results. 30 percent were Class I,
53 percent were Class II and 17 percent
were of Class III severity. Mortality rate
was 3 percent. The common clinical
symptoms noted were Pain at sting site,
diaphoresis and restlessness. The common
clinical signs were Cold extremities,
Tachycardia and hypotension. In this
study we noted male preponderance. 76
percent of cases received first dose of
Prazosin within 8 hours. The common
complications were Peripheral circulatory
failure, myocarditis and congestive cardiac
failure. Majority of cases had reversal
of autonomic storm within
24 hours of treatment. Conclusion - Lesser
sting- prazosin interval the outcome was
better. Longer the sting-prazosin interval
the outcome was poor. If antiscorpion
venom is available complications and mortality
can be reduced. Education of grass
root Health care workers in all primary
health centres and Govt. Hospitals about
scorpion sting and its need for early treatment
with prazosin will reduce Mortality
due to scorpion sting.