Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of scorpion sting in the southeastern region of Turkey.

BACKGROUND Scorpion sting resulting in envenomation is a life-threatening emergency and causes serious health problems in tropical and subtropical regions. The aim of this study was to present the epidemiologic and clinical features of 123 cases presenting with symptoms of scorpion poisoning, a cause of preventable mortality and morbidity. METHODS This study retrospectively analyzed the epidemiologic and demographic features of a total of 123 patients who presented to Diyarbakır State Hospital Emergency Service with scorpion sting between January 2008 and December 2009. RESULTS Among 123 patients who presented to Diyarbakır State Hospital Emergency Service with scorpion sting between January 2008 and January 2009, 62.6% (n=77) were female and 37.4% (n=46) were male. The mean age of the patients was 33.5±17.3 years (2-80), and 27 (22%) patients were younger than 18 years. The place of residence was rural region in 98 (79.7%) patients and the city center in 25 (20.3%). The majority of victims were stung by scorpions while they were at active work (42.3%) or asleep (19.5%) in bed. Eleven (8.95%) patients were stung by a scorpion while putting on their own clothes. CONCLUSION This simple descriptive study will hopefully help healthcare providers take measures to prevent scorpion stings, which should take into consideration local epidemiological features.