Confirmed Envenomation by <i>Androctonus amoreuxi</i> (Egyptian Yellow Fat Tail Scorpion)

Abstract

In the United States, envenomations by native scorpion species such as Centruroides are common and generally well-tolerated. On the contrary, Androctonus species envenomations are exceedingly rare outside the Middle East and North Africa but are particularly deadly. We report a case of envenomation by an Egyptian Yellow Fat Tail (Androctonus amoreuxi) scorpion and the subsequent clinical course. A hobbyist and dangerous scorpion collector was stung by his pet Androctonus amoreuxi, purchased online. Our patient rapidly developed severe localized pain followed by systemic effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, tachypnea, anxiety, GI symptoms, diplopia, dyspnea, profound myalgias, and intense paresthesias. Ultimately, he was diagnosed with a grade 2-to-3 scorpion envenomation based upon evidence of autonomic hyperactivity and cranial nerve dysfunction. He never progressed to cardiopulmonary compromise; neither dobutamine nor antivenom was administered, and he improved with supportive care alone. Case details were verified in person and via electronic medical record review.