Abstract
BACKGROUND: Scorpion stings are a significant public health concern in many countries, particularly in Iran's Khuzestan province. This study investigates the clinical and laboratory correlations in patients hospitalized for scorpion stings at Razi Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, from 2018 to 2022, aiming to enhance patient care and preventive strategies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study employed census sampling. Age, gender, sting season, sting site, delay to visiting hospital, hospitalization duration, antiscorpion treatment vials prescription, clinical symptom and laboratory findings were collected from medical records of patients hospitalized for scorpion stings during the study period, using a standardized checklist for clinical and laboratory parameters. RESULTS: Our analysis of 799 scorpion sting cases revealed a male predominance (55.9%) and the highest incidence among individuals aged 21-40 years, with most stings occurring in summer. The extremities, particularly hands and feet, were the most common sting sites. Pain, erythema, and swelling were the leading symptoms, with most patients seeking medical care within three hours. Hospitalization was common, typically lasting at least one day. Disturbances in urinalysis (U/A) were the most frequent laboratory abnormality. Younger women in intensive care exhibited severe symptoms, including seizures, jaundice, and hematuria, which correlated with abnormalities in CBC, biochemical markers, PT, and U/A. These findings highlight the importance of timely clinical and laboratory assessments to improve outcomes. CONCLUSION: Scorpion stings continue to represent a public health challenge with a range of clinical manifestations and laboratory correlations. By enhancing awareness and preparedness, we can mitigate the impact of this health concern and improve patient outcomes for those affected by scorpion envenomations.