scorpion sting


A toxic systemic response to scorpion venom
Management Antivenom from poison control centers in the southwestern US; also immobilization, ice water immersion, oxygen, ventilation; opiate analgesics may potentiate venom toxicity, and should be avoided; atropine is used to combat parasympathetic effects

scorpion sting

A toxic systemic response to scorpion venom Clinical SOB, opisthotonus, nasal and periorbital itching, dysphasia, drooling, gastric distension, diplopia, transient blindness, nystagmus, fecal & urinary incontinence, penile erection, HTN, arrhythmias, lasting up to 48 hrs Management Antivenom from poison control centers; also immobilization, ice water immersion, oxygen, ventilation; opiate analgesics may potentiate venom toxicity, should be avoided; atropine is used to combat parasympathetic effects. See Scorpion.

scorpion sting

Injury resulting from scorpion venom. The stings of most species in the U.S. seldom produce severe toxic reactions, but because of the difficulty of distinguishing one species of scorpion from another, each scorpion sting should be treated as if it had been inflicted by a species capable of delivering a very toxic dose of venom. The stings vary in severity from local tissue reactions consisting of swelling and pain at the puncture site, to systemic reactions that compromise breathing and neuromuscular function. Death may rarely occur (e.g., in very young children).

Treatment

For mild local reactions, cold compresses and antihistamines are sufficient. Severe reactions may need to be treated with airway management, antivenins, and intensive observation in the hospital. For the source of local antivenins, the use of which is controversial, contact the nearest poison control center.

See also: sting