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. 2024 Jun 25;14(1):30.
doi: 10.1186/s12348-024-00411-3.

Corneal ulceration following periocular scorpion sting: a case report

Mohammad Shiravani  1 , Mahmood Nejabat  1 , Alireza Attar  2
Affiliations

Corneal ulceration following periocular scorpion sting: a case report

Mohammad Shiravani et al. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect. .

Abstract

Background: Scorpion envenomation, a prevalent medical emergency in rural areas, demands immediate attention due to its potential severity. While ocular manifestations are uncommon, they can lead to significant complications such as corneal ulceration. We present a unique case of corneal ulceration subsequent to a yellow scorpion (Hemiscorpius lepturus) sting near the eye, a scenario not previously documented.

Case presentation: A 34-year-old male sought medical care following a scorpion sting despite prior anti-venom treatment. Clinical examination revealed pronounced ocular inflammation, corneal stromal melting, and anterior chamber inflammation, with microbiological confirmation of Pseudomonas spp infection. Treatment comprised fortified ceftazidime and vancomycin eye drops, alongside topical corticosteroids, leading to visual and corneal healing.

Conclusion: This case highlights the urgency of addressing scorpion envenomation and its potential for severe ocular complications, including corneal ulceration. Prompt diagnosis and targeted therapy with antibiotics and corticosteroids are crucial for favorable outcomes. A comprehensive understanding and timely intervention in scorpion sting-induced ocular manifestations are essential for optimal patient management and outcomes in such cases.

Keywords: Corneal ulceration; Hemiscorpius lepturus; Ocular inflammation; Pseudomonas infection; Scorpion envenomation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Mohammad Shiravani, Mahmood Nejabat, and Alireza Attar declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Upon admission, the patient manifests periorbital edema, a 7 × 7 mm corneal infiltration, corneal epithelial defect, and 2 mm hypopyon
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
(A) depicts the clinical status on the seventh day post-admission, exhibiting prompt improvement following initiation of antibiotic (B) illustrates the condition on the tenth day of admission, revealing a reduction to a mere 1 mm corneal infiltration, with a residual central 2 mm x 2 mm epithelial defect (C) displays a 4 × 3 mm corneal scar observed on the 60th day following admission
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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