Scorpionism in children and adolescents: clinical and epidemiological factors associated with severe cases

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the association between epidemiological and clinical factors and the severity of scorpion accidents in children and adolescents. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional quantitative study that analyzed 648 medical records of patients aged between zero and twelve years. The outcome variable was the severity of scorpionism, with bivariate analysis (Pearson's chi-square test) and Poisson multivariate analysis to identify associated factors. Results: A total of 34.7% of the cases were severe, predominantly in female children, under three years old, non-white, urban and from Montes Claros. The majority of accidents occurred before 5pm, on the lower limbs, with care provided after 1am. Sequelae (PR=1.75; 95%CI 1.00-3.05) and ICU (PR=2.45; 95%CI 1.23-4.88) were associated with severity, while bites to the lower limbs reduced the prevalence of serious accidents (PR= 0.76; 95%CI 0.6-2.94). Conclusion: The epidemiological profile indicated that the majority of bites occurred before 5pm, with care after 1am, and bites to the lower limbs were associated with a lower prevalence. The clinical profile was related to ICU admission and the use of vasoactive amines. Given the importance of scorpionism in children, it is crucial to educate the population in order to prevent accidents and improve prognosis.