Effects of Androctonus crassicauda (Olivier, 1807) (Scorpiones: Buthidae) venom on rat metabolism

Abstract

ABSTRACT:Scorpions are venomous arthropods of the Arachnida class and are considered relatives of spiders, ticks and mites. There is not any study about the biochemical effects of Androctonus crassicauda (Olivier, 1807) venom. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed at evaluating the toxicity of the venom from A. crassicauda, which is responsible for a number of deaths of infants, children and adults in tropical and subtropical countries. For this purpose, rats (n=35) were divided into seven groups of five animals each; venom solutions (250µg/kg) were subcutaneously injected into rats; blood samples were taken from each animal at various times; and serum biochemical parameters were measured (levels of total proteins, total bilirubin, albumin, globulin, urea, creatinine, uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, sodium, chlorine, potassium and calcium, and the activity of the enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase). Serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and uric acid increased in envenomed animals, compared to controls. There was a statistically positive correlation between Na + and Cl -ions.

A Rare Complication of Scorpion Sting: Hemiplegia: Case Report

“…The venom could also be the cause of cardiac problems. 12 In the conducted studies, it has been determined that the scorpion sting is most commonly stung from the toes, and second most commonly from the hands. The clinical findings in scorpion stings differ according to the scorpion species, the stung site, the amount of venom, the number of stings, the time of arrival at the hospital, the patient's susceptibility, age, weight, and the regional climate.…”

“…The extremities should be examined and peripheral pulses should be checked. 12,20 The site of the scorpion sting should be washed with NaHCO 3 or plenty of water. For the treatment, fluid-electrolyte support, antibiotic in needed cases, tetanus toxoid, scorpion anti-serum, analgesics to relieve the pain, Phenobarbital for agitation, and to prevent the muscle spasm, calcium gluconate should be administered.…”

Animal toxins and renal ion transport: Another dimension in tropical nephrology

“…Experimentally, elevation of serum K has been observed in animals following envenomation of Leiurus quinquestriatus . Envenoming by Androctonus crussiscanda closely related to Androctonus mauritanicus with kaliotoxin, which blocks several K channels, also increased serum K . In most studies data on urinary K were not available.…”

“…Some changes in serum electrolytes may reflect AKI. Experimentally, increased serum K was observed in rats given scorpion venom . Hyponatraemia in patients bitten by Malayan kraits with high urine Na has been interpreted to reflect the effect of natriuretic peptide .…”

“…Experimentally, increased serum K was observed in rats given scorpion venom. 3,4 Hyponatraemia in patients bitten by Malayan kraits with high urine Na has been interpreted to reflect the effect of natriuretic peptide. 5 Fanconi syndrome observed in bee sting patient could reflect effects of bee venom on several renal transporters.…”