In vivo and in vitro effects of scorpion venoms in Turkey: a mini-review

S Adiguzel

doi:10.1590/s1678-91992010000200004

Abstract

Scorpion stings constitute a common type of accident in Turkey due to the geographic location, climate and socioeconomic structure of this country. Moreover, envenomation cases are considered a public health problem throughout Turkey. Based on data in the literature, the main clinical features of scorpion envenomations are defined as systemic manifestations including sweating, hypertension and vomiting, and among prominent causes of death are cardiorespiratory manifestations, toxic myocarditis and pulmonary edema. The most important health-threatening scorpions found in Turkey are: Androctonus crassicauda, Leiurus quinquestriatus, Mesobuthus gibbosus and Mesobuthus eupeus, all of which belong to the Buthidae family. This study indicates that there is no data related to venom toxicity and in vivo effects of other scorpions found in Turkey - such as Mesobuthus caucasicus, Mesobuthus nigrocinctus and Hottentotta saulcyi - and that further research should be performed to determine their health effects.

Highlights

Of an estimated 1,500 distinct scorpion species found worldwide, only 30 types of scorpion venoms have been characterized
The most important health-threatening scorpions found in Turkey are: Androctonus crassicauda, Leiurus quinquestriatus, Mesobuthus gibbosus and Mesobuthus eupeus, all of which belong to the Buthidae family
This study indicates that there is no data related to venom toxicity and in vivo effects of other scorpions found in Turkey – such as Mesobuthus caucasicus, Mesobuthus nigrocinctus and Hottentotta saulcyi – and that further research should be performed to determine their health effects

Summary

Introduction

Of an estimated 1,500 distinct scorpion species found worldwide, only 30 types of scorpion venoms have been characterized. Based on data in the literature, the main clinical features of scorpion envenomations are defined as systemic manifestations including sweating, hypertension and vomiting, and among prominent causes of death are cardiorespiratory manifestations, toxic myocarditis and pulmonary edema.

Results

Conclusion