Scorpion stings in the Amazonian population from Taisha Canton in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: In Ecuador, the frequency, risk factors, precise effects, toxins, pathophysiology and interaction with the population of scorpion stings are unknown.

Objective: To report on the incidence of scorpion stings, its clinical picture and management, and the limitations for obtaining an antidote in Ecuador.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted and data was collected on the age, gender, place of residence, site of sting, clinical picture, treatment, hospital stay, referral to higher complexity unit, morbidity, and mortality from January 2016 to November 2018 in the Amazonian population from Taisha canton, Morona-Santiago province in Ecuador.

Results: 134 scorpion stings were evaluated. Most cases were adults (70.9%). The most frequent region stung by scorpions were the upper and lower extremities (92.5%) and severe intoxication level accounted for 12.7% of cases. The highest incidence of scorpion stings occurred in October, April, December and March. Annual morbidity was higher in 2017 (52.9%).

Conclusions: There is a high incidence of scorpion Sting in the area under study. Accessibility to an antidote is limited in Ecuador; therefore, further research on this topic and on preventive and curative interventions are necessary.