ABSTRACT

Scorpion stings are rarely encountered in the pediatric emergency department. Post-sting clinical manifestations range from mild localized skin erythema to life-threatening systemic reaction. We present a case of scorpion sting in a 17 years old, 35 weeks pregnant female evaluated in our emergency department. The patient presented to our emergency department with localized skin irritation at the site of the sting. No symptoms of systemic involvement were noted in the ED and the patient was admitted to the hospital for further evaluation. No anti-venom was administered during hospitalization and the patient was discharged home in good condition and no adverse effects were noted on the unborn fetus.

Conclusion: In pregnant patients with scorpion sting and localized skin irritation following scorpion sting anti-venom may be safely withheld. Decisions regarding the use of anti-venom in pregnant women should be carefully considered given the limited information on the safety profile of anti-venom in these patients and effect on the unborn fetus.

Keywords: Pregnancy, Scorpion sting, Fetus