Efficacy of species specific anti-scorpion venom serum (AScVS) against severe, serious scorpion stings (Mesobuthus tamulus concanesis Pocock)--an experience from rural hospital in western Maharashtra.
BACKGROUND
Death caused by scorpion envenoming is a common event in the tropical and subtropical countries including many regions in India. Severe scorpion envenoming causes an autonomic storm producing multi-system organ-failure (MSOF) and death.


OBJECTIVE
To determine the efficacy of Anti-scorpion venom serum (AScVS) in patients stung by scorpions (Mesobuthus tamulus concanesis Pocock--earlier called Buthus tamulus); to compare it with other modalities of therapy and to detect complications, if any, arising out of AScVS treatment.


METHODS
Total 48 patients of severe, serious scorpion envenoming syndrome were studied during the period from 1992 to 2002. In 17 patients AScVS was the only mode of treatment. Others had received adjunctive therapy along with AScVS.


RESULTS
47 patients out of 48 scorpion sting victims recovered completely. Recovery period in patients given AScVS (10 hours) was faster than those who received alpha blockers (16-42 hours). No anaphylactic reaction with AScVS was observed.


CONCLUSIONS
AScVS is effective and safe method of therapy in severe scorpion envenoming syndrome.
Natu
V S
VS
Vijayshree Hospital, Ghonsare, Chiplun, Ratnagiri.
Murthy
R K K
RK
Deodhar
K P
KP
D000293:Adolescent; D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D000997:Antivenins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018999:Charybdotoxin / Q000506:poisoning*; D017024:Chemotherapy, Adjuvant; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006780:Hospitals, Rural; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D009102:Multiple Organ Failure / Q000517:prevention & control; D011446:Prospective Studies; D065008:Scorpion Stings / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012605:Scorpions; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000317:Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists; D000997:Antivenins; D007155:Immunologic Factors; D018999:Charybdotoxin