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Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Scorpion Envenomation in the Emergency Department of Ibn Jazzar Kairouan

Mabrouk IMEN, Imen KandATA and Raja GALAI

Scorpion envenomation is a major public health problem and a frequent reason for emergency consultation, particularly during the summer season. In Tunisia, the Primary Health Care Directorate (DSSB) reports approximately 30,000 scorpion stings per year, of which 1–2% evolve into severe forms.The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of scorpion envenomation cases managed in the Emergency Department of Ibn Jazzar Hospital in Kairouan.This is a retrospective descriptive study involving 47 patients admitted to the emergency department for scorpion envenomation between May 1st, 2022 and September 31st, 2023.Inclusion criteria:Patients aged 18 years or older,Presenting to the emergency department for confirmed scorpion sting.Exclusion criteria:Patients presenting in cardiorespiratory arrest upon arrival.The study included 47 patients, with a slight male predominance:Men: 58%,Women: 42%.The median age was 40 years (IQR: 29–54 years).2. Circumstances of the Sting Place of sting:– Home environment: 70%.Seasonality:A clear peak in the hottest months, especially July and August.Location on the body:– Upper limbs: 42%– Lower limbs: 42%.Scorpion color:– Yellow scorpion: 58%.Use of traditional methods:– 94% of patients reported using traditional practices.Delay to consultation:– Median of 1 hour. Clinical Findings:Local signs were present in all patients (100%): redness, heat, swelling (each present in 94%).General symptoms were seen in 34%: asthenia (24%), chills (28%). Systemic Manifestations:Cardiovascular signs: 18%,Digestive signs: 32%.Vital Signs:Blood pressure: generally stable,Median heart rate: 88 bpm (IQR: 73–96),Median respiratory rate: 22/min (IQR: 20–24).Chest X-ray: normal in 20%,ECG: normal in 56%.Most patients showed favorable evolution, with rapid improvement.There was one reported death.This study provides an overview of the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of scorpion envenomation cases managed in the Emergency Department of Ibn Jazzar Hospital in Kairouan. Overall, the findings emphasize the need for continued public health interventions focusing on early consultation, avoidance of traditional harmful practices, and prevention strategies targeting households in endemic areas.Scorpion envenomation is a frequent reason for emergency consultation, particularly during the hot season. Most patients arrived early to the emergency department, often after using traditional methods. In the majority of cases, clinical presentation remained limited to local signs and mild general symptoms, with rare severe complications.