Scorpion Envenomation :an Experience with Children at Rabigh General Hospital, Ksa

Objectives: To evaluate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of scorpion envenomation in children. Materials and Methods: It was an observational descriptive study for children 11 yrs of age or younger , was carried out, who presented or reffered to emergency department at Rabigh General Hospital due to documented scorpion stings from February 2007 to July 2011. Results: A total of 41 cases of scorpion envenomation were observed during the study time period. The mean age was 5.4 years ranging from 9 months to 11 years. Male patients were 22 (53.6%). The peak frequency of scorpion stings was observed in the month of June .Most of the stings were on exposed parts of the limbs mainly lower limbs in 30 patients ( 73%). Local signs (Redness & Swelling) and pain were the most common clinical manifestations seen in 61% of patients. Most common systemic manifestations were restlessness and irritability (31.7%) followed by vomiting ( 26.8%) and cold extremities (19.5%). All our patients received scorpion antivenom according to guidelines of Ministry of Health Saudia Arabia. One child died while others were discharged within three days of post admission. Conclusion: Although most of scorpion envenomations in children have a good prognosis, severe complications and death may occur.