Scorpions (Scorpiones)

Scorpions are a large diverse group of arachnids, represented by 19 families and more than 2,360 species worldwide. The largest and most significant family of medical-veterinary interest is Buthidae, which represents almost half (48%) of the known scorpion species, including most of the dangerously venomous ones. The more important buthid genera are Androctonus, Buthus, and Leiurus in northern Africa and western Asia; Hottentotta in Asia and India; Parabuthus in southern Africa; Centruroides in North America; and Tityus in South America. A pair of venom glands is located in the terminal-most segment of the scorpion “tail” (telson), which opens via a pair of ducts near the tip of a curved spine that is used to penetrate the integument or skin of potential prey. It also serves as an effective means of defense when threatened by potential enemies or when otherwise disturbed. The venoms are complex mixtures of chemical compounds that vary significantly in their toxicity, depending on the family and species. The vast majority of scorpions are relatively harmless, despite the pain and other reactions associated with their stings, with only about 20 species worldwide being considered seriously dangerous or potentially fatal to humans. Deaths in humans are usually due to powerful neurotoxins in the venom, with the two most common causes of death being cardiac and respiratory failure. Although information is limited regarding veterinary cases, evidence indicates that scorpions dangerous to humans also pose a significant threat to domestic animals, including cats and dogs.