Public Health Impact of Scorpion Venom in Children: Epidemiological, Clinical, Biological and Evolutionary Profile of Pediatric Envenomation in the Souss Massa Region of Morocco

Introduction

Scorpion envenomation remains a significant public health issue in North Africa, particularly in Morocco, where it accounts for high morbidity and mortality, especially among children. As biological toxins, scorpion venoms can cause severe multisystemic complications, necessitating urgent medical attention. Understanding the clinical and biological impact of these envenomations is essential to improve health responses in affected regions.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 383 cases of pediatric scorpion stings recorded at the Regional Hospital Hassan II in Agadir (Souss Massa region) over a period of 9 years and 10 months, from January 2013 to October 2022. The patients were categorized into three age groups: under 1 year, 1–5 years, and over 5 years. Clinical, biological, and evolutionary data were collected and assessed to evaluate the severity and systemic effects of envenomation.

Results

Children under the age of 1 year exhibited the most severe clinical forms and the highest mortality rate. Clinical manifestations showed extensive toxic effects on the cardiovascular, neurological, and pulmonary systems, particularly in grade 2 and 3 cases. Alterations in vital signs (temperature, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, heart, and respiratory rates), biochemical markers (ASAT, ALAT, urea, creatinine, blood glucose), and hematological parameters revealed significant dysfunction in vital organs. A positive correlation was found between clinical evolution and factors such as age, symptom severity, and hemodynamic status.

Conclusions

This study highlights the serious health threat posed by scorpion venom in pediatric populations, especially infants. It underscores the need to strengthen prevention strategies, improve early medical management, and ensure the availability of effective immunotherapy. Scorpion envenomation represents a critical public health challenge in endemic areas and calls for targeted interventions to reduce toxin-related morbidity and mortality.