Les caracteristiques epidemiologiques et cliniques des envenimations scorpioniques dans la province de Beni Mellal (Maroc)

Abstract [- Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of scorpion envenomation in Beni Mellal province (Morocco)] In Morocco, the province of Beni Mellal is one of the regions most affected by the problem of scorpion sting and envenomation. [Objective:] The aim of this research is to reduce cases of morbidity and mortality subsequent to scorpion envenomation through the analysis and interpretation of data recorded in hospital admission forms. [Patients and methods:] Our study covered 56 retrospective cases of scorpion poisoning during the year 2007, which were reported by the hospital's intensive care service in Beni Mellal province. [Results:] Results indicate that scorpion envenomation occurs mainly during summer time, in particular during June and July. Moreover, stings happen at night between 6PM and 6AM (56.8%). Youngsters with age less than or equal to 15 years are those most exposed to envenomation, with a male age of $14.92 \pm 12.94$ years. Furthermore, 71.4% of the hurt patients arrive at the hospital with general symptoms and 28.6% exhibit signs of vital distress. The therapy is still variable, and the rate of lethality at hospital is 8.92%. Statistical analysis of various factors studied in relation to survival prediction (recovery and mortality) showed a highly significant difference for each admission class ( $\chi {2}=13.72$ and p