Epidemiological aspects of scorpionic accidents in a municipality in Brazil's northeastern / Aspectos epidemiológicos dos acidentes escorpiônicos em um munícipio do nordeste brasileiro

Scorpionic accidents are a major public health problem due to the high occurrence with potential seriousness. In this manner, the research aimed to analyze the occurrence of scorpionic accidents in a municipality in the northeastern of Brazil. An exploratory, descriptive study was made, with a quantitative approach, using secondary data which was gotten from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), from 2008 to 2018. Data such as neighborhood, presence of street markets were also used, and the existence of sanitation and climatic data such as temperature and season. Geoprocessing was used to identify possible changes in the environment. In the analyzed period, 9,330 cases of scorpion accidents were recorded, with an average of 848 annual notifications. Scorpionic accidents occurred more frequently in women (5,686; 60.94%). Individuals aged 20 to 29 years (1.727; 18.51%) were more frequent to scorpion stings. Regarding the body parts where the stings were made, the highlights were on the foot (3.515; 37.67%) followed by the hand (2.818; 30.20%). No statistically significant relation was observed between climatic factors and scorpionic accidents. However, the high number of cases of scorpionic accidents was observed in the last 11 years studied. It was evident that during the study period there was no statistical relationship when climatic factors were correlated to scorpionic accidents. On its turn, when it was verified the results of the geoprocessing analysis, it was seen that anthropic factors have been motivating the potentiation of the occurrence of these accidents.

Os acidentes escorpiônicos apresentam-se como um grande problema de saúde pública em virtude da grande ocorrência com potencial gravidade. Nesse sentido, o trabalho teve como objetivo analisar a ocorrência de acidentes escorpiônicos em um município do nordeste brasileiro. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, de caráter exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa em que foram utilizados dados secundários obtidos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN), no período de 2008 a 2018. Também foram utilizados dados como bairro, presença de feiras livres e a existência de saneamento básico e dados climáticos como temperatura e estação do ano. O geoprocessamento foi utilizado para identificar as possíveis alterações no ambiente. No período analisado, foram registrados 9,330 casos de acidentes com escorpião, com média de 848 notificações anuais. Os acidentes escorpiônicos ocorreram com mais frequência em mulheres (5,686; 60,94%). Em indivíduos na faixa etária de 20 a 29 anos (1,727; 18,51%) foram mais frequentes a picada de escorpião. Com relação ao local das picadas destacaram-se o pé (3,515; 37,67%), seguido da mão (2,818; 30,20%). Não foi observada relação estatisticamente significativa entre os fatores climáticos e os acidentes escorpiônicos. Foi observado elevado número de casos de acidentes escorpiônicos nos últimos 11 anos estudados. Ficou evidente que durante o período de estudo não existiu relação estatística quando se correlacionou fatores climáticos aos acidentes escorpiônicos. Por sua vez, ao verificar os resultados da análise de geoprocessamento foi visto que fatores antrópicos têm sido motivadores da potencialização da ocorrência desses acidentes.

Epidemiological aspects of scorpionic accidents in a municipality in Brazil's northeastern / Aspectos epidemiológicos dos acidentes escorpiônicos em um munícipio do nordeste brasileiro

Scorpionic accidents are a major public health problem due to the high occurrence with potential seriousness. In this manner, the research aimed to analyze the occurrence of scorpionic accidents in a municipality in the northeastern of Brazil. An exploratory, descriptive study was made, with a quantitative approach, using secondary data which was gotten from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), from 2008 to 2018. Data such as neighborhood, presence of street markets were also used, and the existence of sanitation and climatic data such as temperature and season. Geoprocessing was used to identify possible changes in the environment. In the analyzed period, 9,330 cases of scorpion accidents were recorded, with an average of 848 annual notifications. Scorpionic accidents occurred more frequently in women (5,686; 60.94%). Individuals aged 20 to 29 years (1.727; 18.51%) were more frequent to scorpion stings. Regarding the body parts where the stings were made, the highlights were on the foot (3.515; 37.67%) followed by the hand (2.818; 30.20%). No statistically significant relation was observed between climatic factors and scorpionic accidents. However, the high number of cases of scorpionic accidents was observed in the last 11 years studied. It was evident that during the study period there was no statistical relationship when climatic factors were correlated to scorpionic accidents. On its turn, when it was verified the results of the geoprocessing analysis, it was seen that anthropic factors have been motivating the potentiation of the occurrence of these accidents.(AU)

Os acidentes escorpiônicos apresentam-se como um grande problema de saúde pública em virtude da grande ocorrência com potencial gravidade. Nesse sentido, o trabalho teve como objetivo analisar a ocorrência de acidentes escorpiônicos em um município do nordeste brasileiro. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo, de caráter exploratório, com abordagem quantitativa em que foram utilizados dados secundários obtidos no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN), no período de 2008 a 2018. Também foram utilizados dados como bairro, presença de feiras livres e a existência de saneamento básico e dados climáticos como temperatura e estação do ano. O geoprocessamento foi utilizado para identificar as possíveis alterações no ambiente. No período analisado, foram registrados 9,330 casos de acidentes com escorpião, com média de 848 notificações anuais. Os acidentes escorpiônicos ocorreram com mais frequência em mulheres (5,686; 60,94%). Em indivíduos na faixa etária de 20 a 29 anos (1,727; 18,51%) foram mais frequentes a picada de escorpião. Com relação ao local das picadas destacaram-se o pé (3,515; 37,67%), seguido da mão (2,818; 30,20%). Não foi observada relação estatisticamente significativa entre os fatores climáticos e os acidentes escorpiônicos. Foi observado elevado número de casos de acidentes escorpiônicos nos últimos 11 anos estudados. Ficou evidente que durante o período de estudo não existiu relação estatística quando se correlacionou fatores climáticos aos acidentes escorpiônicos. Por sua vez, ao verificar os resultados da análise de geoprocessamento foi visto que fatores antrópicos têm sido motivadores da potencialização da ocorrência desses acidentes.(AU)

Pediatric scorpionism in northern Amazonia: a 16-year study on epidemiological, environmental and clinical aspects

The Amazon basin is one of the seven major geographical areas where scorpionism is recorded. In French Guiana, 90 stings per 100,000 inhabitants are registered per year. As the severity of cases is higher in children, descriptive studies are needed to have a better understanding of this pathology. The aim of the present study is to describe pediatric scorpionism in French Guiana. Methods: We conducted a monocentric descriptive retrospective study on scorpion stings in all pediatric patients admitted to Cayenne General Hospital from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2018. Results: In this survey, 132 patients were included. Of them, 63% were male. Patients with general signs of envenomation were younger and lighter (p = 0.04). The picture was "one sting" (95.3%) by a "big" (47.6%), "black" (60%) and "small pincer" (58%) scorpion on the extremity of the body (84%). Stings occurred mainly during the day, while patients changed clothes. There was no envenomation during night. The monthly evaluation highlights that the number of stings and percentage of general signs of envenomation were closely connected to a composite variable including the variation of the level of rivers (p = 0.005). Cardiac symptoms were recorded in 82% of cases with general signs of envenomation. The presence of pulmonary; ear, nose, and throat (ENT); or gastrointestinal symptoms are related to major envenomation (p = 0.001, p = 0.01, and p = 0.02 respectively). Leukocytosis and glycemia increased according to the envenomation grade whereas serum potassium and alkaline reserve decreased. Forty-six patients needed hospitalization and seven of them required intensive care. No patient died nor presented sequelae at discharge from the hospital. Conclusion: Pediatric scorpionism in French Guiana is closely associated with child activities and climatic conditions. Severe envenomation presented most of the time with cardiac, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal symptoms.(AU)

Pediatric scorpionism in northern Amazonia: a 16-year study on epidemiological, environmental and clinical aspects

The Amazon basin is one of the seven major geographical areas where scorpionism is recorded. In French Guiana, 90 stings per 100,000 inhabitants are registered per year. As the severity of cases is higher in children, descriptive studies are needed to have a better understanding of this pathology. The aim of the present study is to describe pediatric scorpionism in French Guiana. Methods: We conducted a monocentric descriptive retrospective study on scorpion stings in all pediatric patients admitted to Cayenne General Hospital from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2018. Results: In this survey, 132 patients were included. Of them, 63% were male. Patients with general signs of envenomation were younger and lighter (p = 0.04). The picture was "one sting" (95.3%) by a "big" (47.6%), "black" (60%) and "small pincer" (58%) scorpion on the extremity of the body (84%). Stings occurred mainly during the day, while patients changed clothes. There was no envenomation during night. The monthly evaluation highlights that the number of stings and percentage of general signs of envenomation were closely connected to a composite variable including the variation of the level of rivers (p = 0.005). Cardiac symptoms were recorded in 82% of cases with general signs of envenomation. The presence of pulmonary; ear, nose, and throat (ENT); or gastrointestinal symptoms are related to major envenomation (p = 0.001, p = 0.01, and p = 0.02 respectively). Leukocytosis and glycemia increased according to the envenomation grade whereas serum potassium and alkaline reserve decreased. Forty-six patients needed hospitalization and seven of them required intensive care. No patient died nor presented sequelae at discharge from the hospital. Conclusion: Pediatric scorpionism in French Guiana is closely associated with child activities and climatic conditions. Severe envenomation presented most of the time with cardiac, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal symptoms.(AU)

Incidência de acidentes com escorpião no município de Ilha Solteira-SP / Incidence of scorpiotic accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira-SP

Introdução: Escorpiões são artrópodes que vivem há milhares de anos no planeta, e se tornaram um sério problema para a saúde pública devido ao grande número de acidentes. No Brasil, existem várias espécies do gênero Tityus, e o que provoca acidentes mais graves no Estado de São Paulo é a espécie Tityus serrulatus, também conhecida popularmente como escorpião-amarelo. Estes artrópodes aparecem mais nos períodos quentes e chuvosos do ano. Objetivo: Descrever a incidência dos acidentes com escorpiões no Município de Ilha Solteira (SP) no período de 2013 a 2019. Método: Para a realização deste estudo utilizou-se de dados secundários e individualizados, coletados no banco de dados oficial do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) para envenenamentos escorpiônicos no Município de Ilha Solteira, Estado de São Paulo, entre os anos de 2013 a 2019. As variáveis analisadas foram: ano da notificação, mês da notificação, faixa etária dos acidentados, sexo dos acidentados e a qualificação dos casos notificados. Resultados: Com 283 casos notificados, a taxa de incidência de escorpionismo aumentou ao longo dos anos pesquisados, acometendo mais indivíduos do sexo masculino. A maioria dos casos foi classificada como leve e não ocorreu nenhum óbito no período. Conclusão: O estudo da incidência de acidentes com escorpião no Município de Ilha Solteira (SP) revelou, no período analisado (2013- 2019), taxa de incidência média de 1,27%, e estes acidentes notificados foram significativamente maiores em pessoas do sexo masculino. Não se observou variação sazonal da notificação de acidentes, assim como não houve associação entre gênero e a gravidade dos acidentes.

Introduction: Scorpions are arthropods that have been living on the planet for thousands of years and have become a serious public health problem due to the large number of accidents. In Brazil, there are several species of the genus Tityus, and what causes more serious accidents in the state of São Paulo is the species Tityus serrulatus, also popularly known as yellow scorpion. These arthropods appear most during the warm and rainy periods. Objective: To describe the incidence of scorpion accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira (SP) from 2013 to 2018. Method: This study used secondary and individualized data collected in the official database of the Disease Information System of Notification (SINAN) for scorpion poisoning in the municipality of Ilha Solteira, State of São Paulo, from 2013 to 2018. The variables analyzed were: month and year of notification, age and sex of the injured and the qualification of the victims in the notified cases. Results: With 283 reported cases, the incidence rate of scorpionism increased over the years surveyed, affecting more males. Most cases were classified as mild and no deaths occurred in the period. Conclusion: The study of the incidence of scorpion accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira (SP) revealed, in the analyzed period (2013-2019), an average incidence rate in the period of 1.27%, and these reported accidents were significantly higher in male. There was no seasonal variation in the notification of accidents, just as there was no association between gender and the severity of accidents.

Incidência de acidentes com escorpião no município de Ilha Solteira-SP / Incidence of scorpiotic accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira-SP

Introdução: Escorpiões são artrópodes que vivem há milhares de anos no planeta, e se tornaram um sério problema para a saúde pública devido ao grande número de acidentes. No Brasil, existem várias espécies do gênero Tityus, e o que provoca acidentes mais graves no Estado de São Paulo é a espécie Tityus serrulatus, também conhecida popularmente como escorpião-amarelo. Estes artrópodes aparecem mais nos períodos quentes e chuvosos do ano. Objetivo: Descrever a incidência dos acidentes com escorpiões no Município de Ilha Solteira (SP) no período de 2013 a 2019. Método: Para a realização deste estudo utilizou-se de dados secundários e individualizados, coletados no banco de dados oficial do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) para envenenamentos escorpiônicos no Município de Ilha Solteira, Estado de São Paulo, entre os anos de 2013 a 2019. As variáveis analisadas foram: ano da notificação, mês da notificação, faixa etária dos acidentados, sexo dos acidentados e a qualificação dos casos notificados. Resultados: Com 283 casos notificados, a taxa de incidência de escorpionismo aumentou ao longo dos anos pesquisados, acometendo mais indivíduos do sexo masculino. A maioria dos casos foi classificada como leve e não ocorreu nenhum óbito no período. Conclusão: O estudo da incidência de acidentes com escorpião no Município de Ilha Solteira (SP) revelou, no período analisado (2013- 2019), taxa de incidência média de 1,27%, e estes acidentes notificados foram significativamente maiores em pessoas do sexo masculino. Não se observou variação sazonal da notificação de acidentes, assim como não houve associação entre gênero e a gravidade dos acidentes.(AU)

Introduction: Scorpions are arthropods that have been living on the planet for thousands of years and have become a serious public health problem due to the large number of accidents. In Brazil, there are several species of the genus Tityus, and what causes more serious accidents in the state of São Paulo is the species Tityus serrulatus, also popularly known as yellow scorpion. These arthropods appear most during the warm and rainy periods. Objective: To describe the incidence of scorpion accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira (SP) from 2013 to 2018. Method: This study used secondary and individualized data collected in the official database of the Disease Information System of Notification (SINAN) for scorpion poisoning in the municipality of Ilha Solteira, State of São Paulo, from 2013 to 2018. The variables analyzed were: month and year of notification, age and sex of the injured and the qualification of the victims in the notified cases. Results: With 283 reported cases, the incidence rate of scorpionism increased over the years surveyed, affecting more males. Most cases were classified as mild and no deaths occurred in the period. Conclusion: The study of the incidence of scorpion accidents in the municipality of Ilha Solteira (SP) revealed, in the analyzed period (2013-2019), an average incidence rate in the period of 1.27%, and these reported accidents were significantly higher in male. There was no seasonal variation in the notification of accidents, just as there was no association between gender and the severity of accidents.(AU)

Perfil dos acidentes escorpiônicos, no período de 2007 a 2019 no município de Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, Brasil / Profile of scorponic accidents in the period from 2007 to 2019 in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, Brazil

Objetivou-se com este estudo traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes escorpiônicos no município de Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, no período de 2007 a 2019, com dados obtidos do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). Foram notificados 10908 acidentes causados por escorpiões no período do estudo, sendo 31,6% na faixa etária de 20 a 39 anos, 14,9% entre 0 a 9 anos , 11,7 % para 60 anos ou mais e 76,9% na zona urbana. Dos casos notificados 61,1% ocorreram em mulheres. Em relação ao local da picada, 46,4% foram nos membros inferiores. As manifestações locais foram relatadas em 77,9% dos casos e as sistêmicas em 1,4%. Verificou-se que 86,8% dos casos mais comuns foram os do tipo leve. Apenas 0,6% dos acidentes estiveram relacionados ao trabalho. Os casos evoluíram para cura em 85,0% (9279) do número de notificações. Concluiu-se que o perfil os acidentes por escorpiões acometem a população de 20 a 39 anos, principalmente do sexo feminino e as extremidades dos membros e recomenda-se então ações integradas entre a Vigilância e Atenção Primária em Saúde, para implantação de ações de educação popular em saúde em escolas e Unidades Básicas de Saúde.

The objective of this study was to trace the epidemiological profile of the scorpionic accidents in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, from 2007 to 2019, with data from the SINAN. A total of 10908 scorpions were recorded during the study period, with 30,1% being between 20 and 39 years of age, 14,9% between 0 and 9 years old, 11,7% for 60 years old and over and, 76,9% in the urban area. Of the reported cases, 61,1% were women. Regarding the site of the bite, 46,4% were in the lower limbs. Local manifestations were reported in 77,9% of cases and as systemic in 1,4%. It was verified that 86,8% of the most common cases were mild type. Only 0,6% of the discs are work related. The cases evolved to cure in 85,0% (9279) of the notifications. It was concluded the profile scorpion accidents ffect a population aged 20 to 39 years, mainly females and the extremities of the limbs, and integrated actions between Surveillance and Primary Health Care are therefore recommended for the implementation of popular health education actions in schools and Basic Health Units.

Perfil dos acidentes escorpiônicos, no período de 2007 a 2019 no município de Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, Brasil / Profile of scorponic accidents in the period from 2007 to 2019 in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, Brazil

Objetivou-se com este estudo traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes escorpiônicos no município de Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, no período de 2007 a 2019, com dados obtidos do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). Foram notificados 10908 acidentes causados por escorpiões no período do estudo, sendo 31,6% na faixa etária de 20 a 39 anos, 14,9% entre 0 a 9 anos , 11,7 % para 60 anos ou mais e 76,9% na zona urbana. Dos casos notificados 61,1% ocorreram em mulheres. Em relação ao local da picada, 46,4% foram nos membros inferiores. As manifestações locais foram relatadas em 77,9% dos casos e as sistêmicas em 1,4%. Verificou-se que 86,8% dos casos mais comuns foram os do tipo leve. Apenas 0,6% dos acidentes estiveram relacionados ao trabalho. Os casos evoluíram para cura em 85,0% (9279) do número de notificações. Concluiu-se que o perfil os acidentes por escorpiões acometem a população de 20 a 39 anos, principalmente do sexo feminino e as extremidades dos membros e recomenda-se então ações integradas entre a Vigilância e Atenção Primária em Saúde, para implantação de ações de educação popular em saúde em escolas e Unidades Básicas de Saúde.(AU)

The objective of this study was to trace the epidemiological profile of the scorpionic accidents in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco, from 2007 to 2019, with data from the SINAN. A total of 10908 scorpions were recorded during the study period, with 30,1% being between 20 and 39 years of age, 14,9% between 0 and 9 years old, 11,7% for 60 years old and over and, 76,9% in the urban area. Of the reported cases, 61,1% were women. Regarding the site of the bite, 46,4% were in the lower limbs. Local manifestations were reported in 77,9% of cases and as systemic in 1,4%. It was verified that 86,8% of the most common cases were mild type. Only 0,6% of the discs are work related. The cases evolved to cure in 85,0% (9279) of the notifications. It was concluded the profile scorpion accidents ffect a population aged 20 to 39 years, mainly females and the extremities of the limbs, and integrated actions between Surveillance and Primary Health Care are therefore recommended for the implementation of popular health education actions in schools and Basic Health Units.(AU)

Venomous animals of state of Piauí: epidemiology of accidents and list of medical importance species / Animais peçonhentos do estado do Piauí: epidemiologia dos acidentes e lista de espécies de importância médica

Os casos de envenenamentos aumentaram consideravelmente no Brasil, no entanto, para o estado do Piauí apenas dois estudos foram realizados até o momento. Aqui, investigamos, através dos formulários de notificação, as características epidemiológicas dos casos de envenenamentos ocorridos durante 11 anos na macrorregião de Picos, estado do Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. Além disso, também verificamos se as espécies registradas nos formulários de notificação correspondem às espécies que ocorrem na região. Registramos 1.249 casos de envenenamentos, sendo 41% causados por escorpiões, 35% causados por serpentes e 24% causados por aranhas. Na maioria dos casos (aracnídeos = 99%, escorpiões = 93%, serpentes = 52%) não houve a identificação da espécie causadora do acidente. A maioria das vítimas dos acidentes (66%) eram indivíduos do sexo masculino entre 18 e 24 anos de áreas rurais, picadas durante atividades de campo na estação chuvosa (janeiro a março). Os locais de lesão mais comuns foram os membros inferiores (37%) e a maioria (53%) dos acidentes foi do tipo leve. Este é o primeiro estudo que reporta o perfil epidemiológico de uma série de envenenamentos (incluindo aracnídeos e serpentes) durante 11 anos de ocorrência no estado do Piauí. Além disso, também apresentamos a primeira lista de espécies de aracnídeos e serpentes de importância médica para o estado. Nossos resultados demonstram que houve uma alta incidência de acidentes por animais peçonhentos na região centro-sul do estado, a maioria dos registros não foi notificada no SINAN, a maioria dos registros não apresentou a identificação das espécies responsáveis pelo acidente, e há registros cujas espécies foram identificadas incorretamente.

Cases of poisoning have increased considerably in Brazil, however for state of Piauí only two studies were carried out so far. Here, we investigated, through the notification forms, the epidemiological characteristics of cases of poisoning that occurred during 11 years in a macro-region of Picos, state of Piauí, Northeastern Brazil. Furthermore, we also check whether the species recorded in the notification forms correspond to the species that occur in the region. We recorded 1.249 cases of envenomations, being 41% caused by scorpions, 35% caused by snakes and 24% caused by spiders. Most cases (arachnids = 99%, scorpions = 93%, snakes = 52%) there was no identification of species causing the accident. Most of the victims of the accidents (66%) were male individuals between 18 and 24 years from rural areas, stung during field activities in the rainy season (January-March). The most common injury sites were the lower limbs (37%) and the majority (53%) of the accidents was the mild type. This is the first study that reports the epidemiological profile of a series of envenomations (including arachnids and snakes) during 11 years of records in the state of Piauí. Furthermore, we also present the first list of species of arachnids and snakes of medical importance to the state. Our results demonstrate that there was a high incidence of accidents by venomous animals in the Center-South region of the state, most of the records was not notified in SINAN, most records does not present the identification of the species responsible for the accident, and there are records whose species was incorrectly identified.

Venomous animals of state of Piauí: epidemiology of accidents and list of medical importance species / Animais peçonhentos do estado do Piauí: epidemiologia dos acidentes e lista de espécies de importância médica

Os casos de envenenamentos aumentaram consideravelmente no Brasil, no entanto, para o estado do Piauí apenas dois estudos foram realizados até o momento. Aqui, investigamos, através dos formulários de notificação, as características epidemiológicas dos casos de envenenamentos ocorridos durante 11 anos na macrorregião de Picos, estado do Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. Além disso, também verificamos se as espécies registradas nos formulários de notificação correspondem às espécies que ocorrem na região. Registramos 1.249 casos de envenenamentos, sendo 41% causados por escorpiões, 35% causados por serpentes e 24% causados por aranhas. Na maioria dos casos (aracnídeos = 99%, escorpiões = 93%, serpentes = 52%) não houve a identificação da espécie causadora do acidente. A maioria das vítimas dos acidentes (66%) eram indivíduos do sexo masculino entre 18 e 24 anos de áreas rurais, picadas durante atividades de campo na estação chuvosa (janeiro a março). Os locais de lesão mais comuns foram os membros inferiores (37%) e a maioria (53%) dos acidentes foi do tipo leve. Este é o primeiro estudo que reporta o perfil epidemiológico de uma série de envenenamentos (incluindo aracnídeos e serpentes) durante 11 anos de ocorrência no estado do Piauí. Além disso, também apresentamos a primeira lista de espécies de aracnídeos e serpentes de importância médica para o estado. Nossos resultados demonstram que houve uma alta incidência de acidentes por animais peçonhentos na região centro-sul do estado, a maioria dos registros não foi notificada no SINAN, a maioria dos registros não apresentou a identificação das espécies responsáveis pelo acidente, e há registros cujas espécies foram identificadas incorretamente.(AU)

Cases of poisoning have increased considerably in Brazil, however for state of Piauí only two studies were carried out so far. Here, we investigated, through the notification forms, the epidemiological characteristics of cases of poisoning that occurred during 11 years in a macro-region of Picos, state of Piauí, Northeastern Brazil. Furthermore, we also check whether the species recorded in the notification forms correspond to the species that occur in the region. We recorded 1.249 cases of envenomations, being 41% caused by scorpions, 35% caused by snakes and 24% caused by spiders. Most cases (arachnids = 99%, scorpions = 93%, snakes = 52%) there was no identification of species causing the accident. Most of the victims of the accidents (66%) were male individuals between 18 and 24 years from rural areas, stung during field activities in the rainy season (January-March). The most common injury sites were the lower limbs (37%) and the majority (53%) of the accidents was the mild type. This is the first study that reports the epidemiological profile of a series of envenomations (including arachnids and snakes) during 11 years of records in the state of Piauí. Furthermore, we also present the first list of species of arachnids and snakes of medical importance to the state. Our results demonstrate that there was a high incidence of accidents by venomous animals in the Center-South region of the state, most of the records was not notified in SINAN, most records does not present the identification of the species responsible for the accident, and there are records whose species was incorrectly identified.(AU)

Scorpionism by Hemiscorpius spp. in Iran: a review

Scorpions are distributed throughout Iran and the genus Hemiscorpius is particularly important in this region. Hemiscorpius lepturus is the most significant species within the genus in the country. Since scorpionism provoked by Hemiscorpius comprises a medical emergency, the present study is focused on this important issue. In order to perform the present work, a review of the medical and health-related literature was carried out in several databases. The current findings indicate that six species of Hemiscorpius are found in 15 states of Iran, mainly in the south and southwest. Deaths caused by stings were reported only for two species. The morphological characteristics and geographical distribution of H. lepturus in Iran, its venom and the toxic compounds, epidemiologic data and clinical manifestations of envenomation as well as treatment for affected people are herein reviewed and described. H. lepturus venom toxicity differs from other Iranian scorpions regarding duration and severity. Scorpionism is an important public health problem in Iran, especially in southwest and south regions and in urban areas. It is more prevalent in children and young people. H. lepturus venom is primarily a cytotoxic agent and has hemolytic, nephrotoxic and to some extent hepatotoxic activity. The use of polyvalent antivenom to prevent scorpion sting symptoms is recommended. A well-planned health education program might be useful in preventing scorpionism.(AU)

Scorpionism by Hemiscorpius spp. in Iran: a review

Scorpions are distributed throughout Iran and the genus Hemiscorpius is particularly important in this region. Hemiscorpius lepturus is the most significant species within the genus in the country. Since scorpionism provoked by Hemiscorpius comprises a medical emergency, the present study is focused on this important issue. In order to perform the present work, a review of the medical and health-related literature was carried out in several databases. The current findings indicate that six species of Hemiscorpius are found in 15 states of Iran, mainly in the south and southwest. Deaths caused by stings were reported only for two species. The morphological characteristics and geographical distribution of H. lepturus in Iran, its venom and the toxic compounds, epidemiologic data and clinical manifestations of envenomation as well as treatment for affected people are herein reviewed and described. H. lepturus venom toxicity differs from other Iranian scorpions regarding duration and severity. Scorpionism is an important public health problem in Iran, especially in southwest and south regions and in urban areas. It is more prevalent in children and young people. H. lepturus venom is primarily a cytotoxic agent and has hemolytic, nephrotoxic and to some extent hepatotoxic activity. The use of polyvalent antivenom to prevent scorpion sting symptoms is recommended. A well-planned health education program might be useful in preventing scorpionism.

The epidemiology of scorpion stings in tropical areas of Kermanshah province, Iran, during 2008 and 2009

Background Scorpion stings are an acute health problem in tropical regions. Awareness of this problem is fundamental for establishing preventive interventions, thus prompting the present study to determine the scorpion-sting incidence in tropical areas of Kermanshah province during 2008 and 2009. Methods In a retrospective study, all records related to scorpion sting patients from the health centers of tropical areas of Kermanshah were studied by a census and checklist. Data were analyzed by the software SPSS-16 using descriptive and inferential tests. Results The incidence of scorpion stings was 334.37/100,000 inhabitants in 2008 and 339.07/100000 in 2009. Mean and standard deviation of age were 30.55 ± 16.99. Scorpion stings were more common in rural areas (59.6 %) and occurred more often in summer (52.9 %). Nearly 48 % of bites were to patients hands and 47.5 % of patients were injured between midnight and 6 a.m. While 92.9 % of patients had mild symptoms, scorpion antivenom was prescribed to 88.8 % of victims, 94.5 % of whom were discharged after outpatient treatment. The relationship between antivenom therapy and clinical symptoms was not significant. Conclusions Due to the relatively high incidence of scorpion stings in tropical areas of Kermanshah, it is recommended that the inhabitants be educated through the mass media about how to prevent the stings and apply preliminary treatment.(AU)

The epidemiology of scorpion stings in tropical areas of Kermanshah province, Iran, during 2008 and 2009

Background Scorpion stings are an acute health problem in tropical regions. Awareness of this problem is fundamental for establishing preventive interventions, thus prompting the present study to determine the scorpion-sting incidence in tropical areas of Kermanshah province during 2008 and 2009. Methods In a retrospective study, all records related to scorpion sting patients from the health centers of tropical areas of Kermanshah were studied by a census and checklist. Data were analyzed by the software SPSS-16 using descriptive and inferential tests. Results The incidence of scorpion stings was 334.37/100,000 inhabitants in 2008 and 339.07/100000 in 2009. Mean and standard deviation of age were 30.55 ± 16.99. Scorpion stings were more common in rural areas (59.6 %) and occurred more often in summer (52.9 %). Nearly 48 % of bites were to patients hands and 47.5 % of patients were injured between midnight and 6 a.m. While 92.9 % of patients had mild symptoms, scorpion antivenom was prescribed to 88.8 % of victims, 94.5 % of whom were discharged after outpatient treatment. The relationship between antivenom therapy and clinical symptoms was not significant. Conclusions Due to the relatively high incidence of scorpion stings in tropical areas of Kermanshah, it is recommended that the inhabitants be educated through the mass media about how to prevent the stings and apply preliminary treatment.

Distribuição espacial de acidentes escorpiônicos em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 2005 a 2009 / Spatial distribution of scorpion sting accidents in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 2005 to 2009

Acidentes por escorpião constituem problema de saúde pública em Belo Horizonte. Realizou-se um estudo epidemiológico observacional retrospectivo para analisar a frequência e distribuição espacial dos acidentes escorpiônicos em Belo Horizonte, entre 2005 e 2009, e associá-las às categorias de risco classificadas pelo Índice de Vulnerabilidade à Saúde (IVS), um índice socioeconômico regional composto. Foram utilizados dados de notificação do Sistema Nacional de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) e Sistema de Vigilância Epidemiológica (SISVE), referentes aos anos de 2008 e 2009. Para o período de 2005 a 2007, foi necessário o resgate de dados das fichas clínicas do Hospital João XXIII (HPSJXXIII) correspondentes às variáveis encontradas no SINAN e SISVE, uma vez que os mesmos não estavam digitalizados nos referidos sistemas de informação. Para georreferenciamento e análise espacial, foi utilizada a base geográfica EndGeo, o aplicativo de mapeamento MapInfo versão 10.0 e os programas Hotspot Detective e SatScan. Entre 2005 e 2009, ocorreram em Belo Horizonte 2.769 casos de acidentes por escorpião, o que representa uma incidência média de 22,4 casos por 100.000 habitantes. Do total de casos, 1.924 (69,5 porcento) foram georreferenciados e houve predomínio de incidência em dois Distritos Sanitários (DS), com grande concentração de casos nas regiões de cemitérios do município. Foram detectados dois "clusters" no período, sendo um em 2005, nos DS Noroeste e Oeste, e outro entre 2006 e 2007, nos DS Noroeste e Nordeste. Não houve associação entre as áreas de maior incidência de escorpionismo e as áreas de maior risco à saúde classificadas pelo IVS. Com base nos resultados, conclui-se que há necessidade de melhorias no processo de notificação do agravo e que o mapeamento dos casos é uma ferramenta relevante capaz de embasar o direcionamento das ações educativas de controle para as áreas prioritárias de Belo Horizonte.(AU)

Scorpion sting accidents are a public health problem in Belo Horizonte and veterinarians play an important role in its control program when based on capture, mapping of cases and educational actions with the population. A retrospective epidemiological study was done to analyze the frequency and spatial distribution of scorpion sting cases in Belo Horizonte, between 2005 and 2009, and to associate them with the Health Vulnerability Index (IVS), a regional and composed socio-economic index. Notification data of scorpion sting accidents were used from the National System of Notifiable Diseases (SINAN) and Epidemiological Surveillance System (SISVE) for years 2008 and 2009. For the period between 2005 and 2007 it was necessary to retrieve data from the clinical records of João XXIII Hospital (HPSJ XXIII) which were not digitalized in the referred information systems. For georeference and spatial analysis, geographic base EndGeo and features of the programs MapInfo version 10.0, Hotspot Detective and SatScan were used. Between 2005 and 2009 2769 cases of scorpionism, occurred in Belo Horizonte which represents an average incidence of 22.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Among 1924 (69.5 percent) georeferenced cases, the highest incidence was observed in two Sanitary District (DS). A large concentration of cases was also observed in the areas of the city cemeteries. Two clusters were detected during this period, one in 2005, located in the Northwest and West DS, and another between 2006 and 2007 in the Northwest and Northeast DS. There was no association between higher incidence areas of scorpionism in Belo Horizonte and the areas of higher health risk classified by IVS. It is necessary to improve the reporting process regarding scorpion sting accidents. Another conclusion is that the mapping of cases is a relevant tool to base the targeting of educative actions to the priority areas of Belo Horizonte.(AU)

Scorpionism in Brazil in the years 2000 to 2012

Background Scorpionism is a serious public health problem in Brazil. Nationwide epidemiological analyses of scorpion stings are scarce. In this context, the present study aims to provide an epidemiological analysis of accidents involving scorpions in Brazil.Methods An analytical epidemiological study of the scorpion accidents reported in the Information System for Notifiable Diseases (SINAN) was conducted from 2000 to 2012 in Brazil.Results During this period, 482,616 accidents and 728 deaths were reported. The annual average incidence and mortality rates per 100,000 inhabitants were 19.6 and 0.030, respectively, with annual average lethality rate of 0.16%. The highest accident frequency was recorded in male subjects, aged 2049 years, from September to December and in urban areas, except in the northern region of the country, where accidents were most frequent in June and July, and in rural areas. Males up to age 9 and rural areas were defined as an age group and area for greatest death risk, respectively.Conclusions Scorpionism in Brazil is a predominantly urban health problem that mostly affects people at an economically active age. The Northeast and Southeast hold the majority of cases and deaths, as well as the highest annual incidence and mortality averages, but the Central West and North presented the highest average annual lethality rates. The epidemiological changes described in this study highlight the need for intensifying health surveillance actions to prevent scorpion accidents in Brazil.(AU)

Scorpionism in Brazil in the years 2000 to 2012

Background Scorpionism is a serious public health problem in Brazil. Nationwide epidemiological analyses of scorpion stings are scarce. In this context, the present study aims to provide an epidemiological analysis of accidents involving scorpions in Brazil.Methods An analytical epidemiological study of the scorpion accidents reported in the Information System for Notifiable Diseases (SINAN) was conducted from 2000 to 2012 in Brazil.Results During this period, 482,616 accidents and 728 deaths were reported. The annual average incidence and mortality rates per 100,000 inhabitants were 19.6 and 0.030, respectively, with annual average lethality rate of 0.16%. The highest accident frequency was recorded in male subjects, aged 2049 years, from September to December and in urban areas, except in the northern region of the country, where accidents were most frequent in June and July, and in rural areas. Males up to age 9 and rural areas were defined as an age group and area for greatest death risk, respectively.Conclusions Scorpionism in Brazil is a predominantly urban health problem that mostly affects people at an economically active age. The Northeast and Southeast hold the majority of cases and deaths, as well as the highest annual incidence and mortality averages, but the Central West and North presented the highest average annual lethality rates. The epidemiological changes described in this study highlight the need for intensifying health surveillance actions to prevent scorpion accidents in Brazil.