Comparison of the Scorpionism Caused by Centruroides margaritatus, Tityus pachyurus and Tityus n. sp. aff. metuendus Scorpion Venoms in Colombia

Abstract

Among other scorpion species, Colombia has two genera of the Buthidae family Centruroides and Tityus, considered to be dangerous to humans. This research shares scientific knowledge aiming to a better understanding about the pathophysiological effects of such venoms. The venom of the three species: Centruroides margaritarus, Tityus pachyurus, and T. n. sp. aff. metuendus with biomedical interest were studied. An initial pre-glycemic sample was taken from ICR mice. They were later intraperitoneally inoculated with doses of 35% and 70% of LD50 of total venom. Poisoning signs were observed during a 6-h period to determine the level of scorpionism. After observation, a second glycemic sample was taken, and a histopathological evaluation of different organs was performed. This work revealed that all three venoms showed considerably notorious histopathological alterations in main organs such as heart and lungs; and inducing multiple organ failure, in relation to the glycemia values, only C. margaritatus and T. n. sp. aff. metuendus showed significant changes through manifestation of hyperglycemia. According to the Colombian scorpionism level; signs were mild to severe affecting the autonomous nervous system.