About a case of blindness following scorpion envenomation

Abstract

Abstract:The author reports a case of blindness occurred after three scorpion stings in a young woman from the region Ouargla, Algeria. The absence of signs of neurological and cardiovascular envenomation and the functional examinations of eyes is likely to be the consequence of a toxic neuropathy. Two months later, blindness persists and functional prognosis remains reserved.

Comment on Senthilkumaran et al. Bilateral Simultaneous Optic Neuritis Following Envenomations by Indian Cobra and Common Krait. Toxins 2022, 14, 805

“…This patient, too, developed visual deterioration with papilledema six days after antivenom was given. The same syndrome has even been described in a case of scorpion envenomation, in which a (similar) antivenom was given to a patient without signs of systemic involvement [14]. She developed bilateral optic neuropathy after five days as well.…”

Macular Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion as a Rare Complication of Periocular Scorpion Bite: A Case Report and Literature Review

“…The scorpion venom activates coagulation cascade through its low molecular weight polypeptides in different pathways. The main messengers for induction of the coagulation and complement cascade are cytokines such as endothelin and neuropeptide Y [11]. The mechanisms indicated explain the reported case.…”

African Society of Toxinology: a new opportunity for integrating the control of envenomations in Africa

“…Epidemiological studies confirm the importance and severity of scorpion stings in Algeria (19). Simultaneously, clinical and therapeutic investigations show the diversity of the pharmacological action exerted by scorpion venom on the human cardiovascular and neurological systems (20,21).…”

“…Presentations of clinical envenomation cases served as a reminder of the consequences, not only in relation to mortality but also disability (21,23). Therapeutic uncertainties, especially for the treatment of envenomation by Elapidae are highlighted by (24).…”