A Faunistic Study on Scorpions and the Epidemiology of Scorpionism in Bam, Southeast of Iran.

BACKGROUND: Scorpions are arthropods of medical importance which are classified in Arachnida and commonly found in hot and dry environments. Notably, no extensive study has been conducted in Bam County in relation to research involving scorpions.

METHODS: The study was piloted from May to November 2013 in the identification of scorpion fauna and epidemiological survey of scorpions sting cases were completed from April 2008 to March 2012. Scorpion specimens were collected at night using UV light.

RESULTS: During the study, 390 scorpions were captured from different areas. The samples were identified and categorized; four identified genus and species belonged to the family Buthidea, namely Mesobuthus eupeus (73.1%), Orthochirus zagrosensis (23.8%), Androctonus crassicauda (1.8%) and Compsobuthus kaftani (1.3%). Accordingly, 512 patients were bitten by scorpion; 56% were male and 44% were female. This study revealed that the highest incidence of scorpion sting cases belonged to the 15-24 age group. The highest rate of scorpion stings cases were recorded in summer. With regards to the place of residence, 269 (52.5%) resided in rural districts and 243 (47.5%) abided in urban settings.

CONCLUSIONS: It is highly recommended that it is crucial to evaluate the possible relationship between all the stung patients and dangerous species specific to that region.