Análise epidemiológica dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos no estado de pernambuco / Epidemiological analysis of accidents caused by venomous animals in the state of Pernambuco

Objetivo: Analisar o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos no estado de Pernambuco, entre 2018 e 2022. Método: Pesquisa epidemiológica do tipo quantitativa, realizada com secundários do SINAN. Selecionado às variáveis: sexo, faixa etária, raça, escolaridade, gestação, local de picada, tempo de atendimento, tipo de acidente, soroterapia, classificação e evolução final. Os Programa Microsoft Excel e Word foram utilizados para análise estatística. Resultados: Foram notificados 105.005 casos, predominando-se em períodos quentes e chuvosos. Houve maior notificação no sexo feminino (53,05%), dos 20 aos 39 anos (31,74%), ensino fundamental incompleto (15,96%), pardos (67,88%) e não gestantes (87,07%). A maioria dos acidentes foram causados por escorpiões (73,39%), originando-se nos pés (30,35%), com atendimento médico em até 1 hora (47,74%), leves (85,73%), evoluindo para cura (91,52%) sem soroterapia (82,92%). Conclusão: Torna-se evidente a importância de medidas para seu controle, principalmente em orientações populacional e o preenchimento correto da ficha de notificação.(AU)

To analyze the epidemiological profile of accidents by venomous animals in the state of Pernambuco between 2018 and 2022. Method: Quantitative epidemiological research using secondary data from SINAN. The following variables were selected: gender, age group, race, schooling, pregnancy, place of bite, time of care, type of accident, serotherapy, classification and final evolution. The Microsoft Excel and Word programs were used for statistical analysis. Results: 105,005 cases were reported, predominantly during hot and rainy periods. Most cases were reported among females (53.05%), those aged between 20 and 39 (31.74%), those with incomplete primary education (15.96%), those with brown skin (67.88%) and those who were not pregnant (87.07%). The majority of accidents were caused by scorpions (73.39%), originated in the feet (30.35%), with medical attention within 1 hour (47.74%), mild (85.73%), evolving to cure (91.52%) without serotherapy (82.92%). Conclusion: The importance of measures to control the disease is clear, especially in terms of guidance for the population and the correct completion of the notification form.(AU)

Analizar el perfil epidemiológico de los accidentes por animales venenosos en el estado de Pernambuco entre 2018 y 2022. Método: Investigación epidemiológica cuantitativa utilizando datos secundarios del SINAN. Fueron seleccionadas las siguientes variables: sexo, grupo de edad, raza, escolaridad, embarazo, lugar de la mordedura, tiempo de atención, tipo de accidente, sueroterapia, clasificación y evolución final. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó Microsoft Excel y Word. Resultados: Se notificaron 105.005 casos, predominantemente durante los períodos cálidos y lluviosos. La mayoría de los casos se notificaron en mujeres (53,05%), con edades comprendidas entre 20 y 39 años (31,74%), con estudios primarios incompletos (15,96%), de piel morena (67,88%) y no embarazadas (87,07%). La mayoría de los accidentes fueron causados por escorpiones (73,39%), se originaron en los pies (30,35%), recibieron atención médica en menos de 1 hora (47,74%), fueron leves (85,73%) y evolucionaron hacia la curación (91,52%) sin sueroterapia (82,92%). Conclusión: Es evidente la importancia de las medidas de control de la enfermedad, especialmente en lo que se refiere a la orientación de la población y a la correcta cumplimentación del formulario de notificación.(AU)

Envenomations caused by fish in Brazil: an evolutionary, morphological, and clinical vision of a neglected problem

ABSTRACT Venomous fish are commonly found in Brazilian waters. The most important marine venomous fish species are stingrays (Dasyatidae, Gimnuridae, Myliobatidae, and Rhinopteridae families), catfish (Ariidae family), scorpionfish and lionfish (both Scorpaenidae family), and toadfish (Batrachoididae family). Meanwhile, Potamotrygonidae stingrays and Pimelodidae catfish are the most important venomous freshwater fish. The mechanisms of envenomation vary and involve various venomous apparatuses and glands. Despite not being highly developed, these venomous apparatuses in fish appear rudimentary, using structures such as fins and rays to inoculate toxins and rarely presenting with specialized structures. Toxins are produced by glandular tissue made up of proteinaceous cells, lacking true glands, and are positioned along the inoculation structures. However, systemic manifestations are rare. No antivenom serum has been developed for any species of American venomous fish. Brazilian venomous fish and their venoms have only recently attracted attention, leading to new studies not only addressing clinical issues in humans, but also exploring the discovery of new active substances with immense pharmacological potential.

Animais peçonhentos e sua trajetória secular para as ações de saúde: do histórico à aplicação / Venomous animals and their secular trajectory for health actions: from history to application / Los animales venenosos y su trayectoria secular para las acciones de salud: de la historia a la aplicación

O livro Os animais peçonhentos na saúde pública expõe um vasto histórico de acidentes envolvendo problemas de saúde provocados por animais peçonhentos. Os autores resgatam trabalhos e vivências, descritos por Louis Pasteur e Vital Brazil, fundamentais para o desenvolvimento de processos da ciência translacional como compreendida hoje, no século XXI. A obra é marcada pela defesa da necessidade de políticas públicas coerentes que sejam capazes de promover ações de capacitação, prevenção, diagnóstico, tratamento e reabilitação dos pacientes.

The book Os animais peçonhentos na saúde pública presents a vast history of accidents involving health problems caused by venomous animals. The authors rescue works and experiences, described by Louis Pasteur and Vital Brazil, fundamental for the development of translational science processes as understood today, in the 21st century. The work is marked by the defense of the need for coherent public policies capable of promoting training, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients.

El libro Os animais peçonhentos na saúde pública expone una vasta historia de accidentes que involucran problemas de salud causados por animals venenosos. Los autores rescatan obras y experiencias, descritas por Louis Pasteur y Vital Brazil, fundamentales para el desarrollo de los procesos de ciencia translacional tal como se entienden hoy, en el siglo XXI. El libro está marcado por la defensa de la necesidad de políticas públicas coherentes capaces de promover la formación, la prevención, el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y la rehabilitación de los pacientes.

Acidentes e plantas hospedeiras associadas a lagartas urticantes / Accidents and host plants associated with urticant caterpillars / Accidentes y plantas hospedadoras asociadas a orugasurticantes

Introdução: Ambientes urbanos como áreas verdes, praças, parques e escolas estão se tornando cada vez mais propícios ao aparecimento de animais peçonhentos, dentre eles as lagartas urticantes. Acidentes com algumas lagartas urticantes podem ser graves, podendo leva ao óbito, como no caso do gênero Lonomia.Objetivo:descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes envolvendo lagartas urticantes no município de Chapecó, Santa Catarina e identificar espécies vegetais hospedeiras destas lagartas.Metodologia:Foram coletados os dados epidemiológicos dos acidentes com lagartas urticantes registrados no período entre 2016 e 2017. Os dados foram obtidos junto ao Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação.Foram analisadas as variáveis sexo, idade, parte do corpo acometida, os meses que houve as notificações, a ocupação dos indivíduos que tiveram contato com a lagarta, local em que residem, escolaridade e a espécie da lagarta envolvida. Ainda, foram identificados os espécimes coletados pelo setor de Vigilância em Saúde Ambiental, bem como foram identificadas as plantas hospedeira sem que foram encontrados.Resultados:Foram registrados 377 acidentes envolvendo majoritariamente o sexo feminino e a faixa etária entre 20 a 49 anos.As partes do corpo mais acometidas foram o pé (17,0%), mão (12,9%) e cabeça (11,4%). Foram identificadas seis espécies de plantas associadas à ocorrência de lagartas urticantes Conclusões:O estudo contribui com informações epidemiológicas sobre os acidentes causados por lepidópteros em um município de grande porte. Ressalta-se, a importância de ampliar as pesquisas em relação às plantas hospedeiras e a divulgação dos resultados visando a prevenção de acidentes (AU).

Introduction:Urban environments such as green areas, squares, parks and schools are becoming more and more favorableto the appearance of venomous animals, including urticatingcaterpillars. Accidents with some stinging caterpillars can be serious and can lead to death, as in the case of the genus Lonomia. Objective:to describe the epidemiological profile of accidents involving stinging caterpillars in the municipality of Chapecó, Santa Catarina and to identify host plant species of these caterpillars. Methodology:Epidemiological data on stinging caterpillar accidents recorded in the period between 2016 and 2017were collected. The data were obtained from the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. The variables sex, age, body part affected, the months of the notifications, the occupation of the individuals who had contact with the caterpillar, the place where they live, education and the species of the caterpillar involved were analyzed. Still, the specimens collected by the Environmental Health Surveillance sector were identified, as well as the host plants in which they were found. Results:There were 377 accidents involving mostly females and the age group between 20 and 49 years. The parts of the body most affected were the foot (17.0%), hand (12.9%) and head (11.4%). Six species of plants were identified associated with the occurrence of stinging caterpillars.Conclusions:The study contributes with epidemiological information on accidents caused by Lepidoptera in a large municipality. The importance of expanding research in relation to host plants and the dissemination of results aimed at preventing accidents are emphasized (AU).

Introducción: Los entornos urbanos como áreas verdes, plazas, parques y escuelas son cada vez más propicios para la aparición de animales venenosos, incluidas las orugas urticantes. Los accidentes con algunas orugas pueden ser graves y provocar la muerte, como en el caso del género Lonomia.Objetivo: describir el perfil epidemiológico de los accidentes por orugasurticantes en el municipio de Chapecó, Santa Catarina e identificar especies de plantas hospedadoras de estas orugas.Metodología: Se recolectaron datos epidemiológicos sobre accidentes de orugas urticantes registrados en el período entre 2016 y 2017. Los datos se obtuvieron del Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação(SINAN). Se analizaron las variables sexo, edad, parte del cuerpo afectada, los meses delas notificaciones, la ocupación de los individuos que tuvieron contacto con lasorugas, el lugar donde viven, educación y la especie de oruga involucrada. Aún así, se identificaron los especímenes recolectados por el sector de Vigilancia de Salud Ambiental, así como las plantas hospedantes en las que se encontraron.Resultados: Se produjeron 377 accidentes que afectaron en su mayoría a mujeres y al grupo de edad entre 20 y 49 años. Las partes del cuerpo más afectadas fueron el pie (17,0%), mano (12,9%) y cabeza (11,4%).Se identificaron seis especies de plantas asociadas con la ocurrencia de orugas urticantes.Conclusiones: El estudio presentainformación epidemiológica sobre accidentes causados por lepidópteros en un municipio de gran tamaño. Se destacala importancia de ampliar la investigación en relación con las plantas hospedantes y la difusión de resultados orientados a la prevención delosaccidentes (AU).

Mapping of the venomous stingrays of the Potamotrygon genus in the Tietê River, São Paulo Sstate, Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: Freshwater stingrays are fish that have adapted to the rivers and lakes in South America. The expansion of the Potamotrygonidae family in the Paraná River began after the damming of the Sete Quedas Falls, reaching the mouth of the Paranapanema and Tietê rivers approximately 20 years ago via the locks of the hydroelectric power plants. They are not aggressive animals; however, they have one to four stingers on their tails covered by a venom-producing epithelium and can cause severe envenomation in fishermen and bathers if stepped on or manipulated. Methods: We conducted a descriptive, retrospective, and prospective study by monitoring the fishing of the Potamotrygon genus in the lower Tietê River, mapping the location of the rays as a fishery product of professional fishermen and/or recording images of the fish caught. Results: Sixteen stingrays of the Potamotrygon genus were mapped by monitoring fishermen's fish products in the extensive area between the municipalities of Pereira Barreto and Buritama, São Paulo state. Conclusions: The lower Tietê River is fully colonized by freshwater stingrays and this expansion likely continues upstream, reaching various sub-basins of the river. The advancement of these venomous fish in areas where they did not exist previously requires education programs and interaction with the community to avoid serious injuries in bathers and fishermen and the unreasonable extermination of the animals.

Epidemiological and clinical aspects of snakebites in the upper Juruá River region, western Brazilian Amazonia

This study addresses the clinical and epidemiological aspects of envenoming cases resulting from snakebites treated at a hospital in Cruzeiro do Sul, in the upper Juruá River region, western Brazilian Amazonia. The specific identity of snakes that caused the envenomings was inferred (a) from the diagnosis of patient symptoms and signs upon hospital admission, (b) by enzyme immunoassay for detection of Bothrops atrox and Lachesis muta venom from serum samples taken from patients before antivenom therapy, or (c) by direct identification of the snake, when it was brought along to the hospital or photographed. There were 133 snakebites (76.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants) registered during one year (July 2017 to June 2018). Most snakebites (88.7%) were caused by Bothrops spp., and the rest by non-venomous snakes or dry bites. Snakebites tended to occur more often during the rainy season, coinciding with the period of greater reproductive activity of the snakes and greater availability of their prey. In addition, the increase in the water level of rivers and lakes during the rainy season tends to concentrate snakes in dry places and, thus, to increase encounters with humans. Information campaigns on prevention and first aid, specially among the most vulnerable groups (indigenous people, farmers, and children and teenagers in rural areas), and the importance of using protective equipment (boots, leggings, leather gloves) in certain high risk activities (e.g. agriculture and extractivism in forests) are fundamental for the reduction of snakebite morbidity. (AU)

Health-risk assessment of Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis) envenomations on urban beaches in São Luís city, in the state of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis) is a cosmopolitan species, with a widespread distribution and responsible for a great number of injuries caused by cnidarians worldwide, including Brazil. Geoprocessing technology, however, has never been used to assess the spatial distribution of these animals on beaches. The aim of this study was to carry out a health risk assessment of Portuguese man-of-war (P. physalis) envenomations on the São Marcos and Calhau beaches in São Luís city, in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. METHODS: This is a descriptive and quantitative study concerning primary data on the occurrence of the Portuguese man-of-war (P. physalis) and human envenomations in the studied places, conducted over a two-year period in São Luís, Maranhão, northeastern Brazil. RESULTS: Envenomations mainly occurred on beaches presenting high density of P. physalis during the dry period. Vinegar has been incorporated as a first aid, according to recommendations set by the Brazilian Ministry of Health. CONCLUSIONS: In order to improve prevention and control actions of human envenomation, risk areas for this type of envenomation should be clearly indicated as alert areas. Inclusion of the geographical location of the envenomation in the Notification/Investigation SINAN Form was suggested for allowing the continuity of studies involving this public health issue.

Epidemiology of the injury with venomous animals in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Northeast of Brazil / Epidemiologia dos acidentes com animais peçonhentos no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract This report is an investigation of the epidemiological features of injuries with venomous animals in the Rio Grande do Norte state, Northeastern Brazil, from 2007 to 2014. A total of 30,429 cases were analyzed. Cases were distributed over all months of the period studied and occurred mainly in urban areas. Scorpion stings showed the highest percentage of cases, but the chance of death among snakebites was higher. Envenomation predominated in females with age between 20 and 49 years old. Children and elderly showed a higher chance of death. Most victims were bitten on the extremities of the limbs and received medical care within 0-1 hour after being bitten. The main local and systemic symptoms reported were pain and headache, respectively. Cases were mostly classified as mild and progressed to cure. Few victims show local and systemic complications. The high number of accidents with venomous animals shows that Rio Grande do Norte may be an important risk area for such injuries. Furthermore, this study provides data for the development of health actions to promote control and prevention of these injuries in this region.

Resumo Este estudo é uma investigação das características epidemiológicas dos acidentes com animais peçonhentos no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Nordeste do Brasil, de 2007 a 2014. Um total de 30.429 casos foram analisados. Os casos foram distribuídos em todos os meses do período estudado e ocorreram principalmente em áreas urbanas. Os acidentes escorpiônicos representaram maior percentual de casos, entretanto, a chance de morte entre acidentes ofídicos foi maior. Os envenenamentos predominaram em mulheres com idade entre 20 e 49 anos. Crianças e idosos exibiram maiores chances de morte. A maioria das vítimas foi picada nas extremidades dos membros e recebeu assistência médica entre 0-1 hora após o incidente. Os principais sintomas locais e sistêmicos reportados foram dor e cefaléia, respectivamente. Os casos foram principalmente classificados como leves e progrediram para cura. Poucas vítimas manifestaram complicações locais e sistêmicas. O elevado número de acidentes com animais peçonhentos indica que o estado do Rio Grande do Norte pode ser uma importante área de risco para tais acidentes. Além disso, este estudo fornece dados que poderão ser utilizados para a elaboração de ações em saúde, a fim de promover o controle e a prevenção desses acidentes nesta região.

Ophidian envenomings in a region of Brazilian Western Amazon / Envenenamentos ofídicos em uma região da Amazônia Ocidental Brasileira

INTRODUCTION: Snakebites are a public health problem and are considered clinical emergencies, what makes studies in high-incidence regions very importantOBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiological aspects of patients suffering from snakebite accidents in a region of the Western Amazon, BrazilMETHODS: It is a cross-sectional, retrospective and documentary quantitative approach, from 2015 to 2016, held at the Regional Hospital of Juruá, located in the city of Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brazil. Epidemiological data were obtained from the forms of the Notification Disease Information System (SINAN), in the Epidemiological Surveillance Sector of the hospital. The following variables were verified: month of occurrence, snake identification (type of accident), accident location (urban and rural), locality, municipality, victim data (age group, sex, anatomical region affected), symptoms and signs circumstances of the accident, time elapsed between accident and care, number of ampoules used, and type of serumRESULTS: An average of 124 cases of snakebites were treated per year (76.71 cases per 100,000 inhabitants/year), most of them were botropic accidents and the patients were male adult and rural workers, bitten in the lower limbs. More than 30% of cases were treated six hours after poisoning and 24-hour care is a risk factor for complications, as seven of the eight patients who had complications were treated within one day of the accidentCONCLUSION: It was presented a constant increase in the cases, which generated a worrying point of reflection, which may be associated with two factors, where one turns to the improvement in the displacement of victims (improvements in branch roads and implementation of SAMU speedboat) facilitating plus transport and telephone coverage by improving communication, or the failure of public health policies to provide better conditions and guidance to the population

INTRODUÇÃO: Os acidentes ofídicos são um problema de saúde pública e são considerados emergências clínicas, motivo este que torna os estudos em regiões de grande incidência muito importantesOBJETIVO: Descrever os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos de pacientes vítimas de acidentes ofídicos em uma região da Amazônia Ocidental, BrasilMÉTODO: Trata-se de um transversal, retrospectivo e documental de abordagem quantitativa, no período de 2015 a 2016, realizado no Hospital Regional do Juruá, localizado na cidade de Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brasil. Os dados epidemiológicos foram obtidos a partir das fichas do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN), no Setor de Vigilância Epidemiológica do hospital. Foram verificadas as seguintes variáveis: mês de ocorrência, identificação da serpente (tipo de acidente), local do acidente (zona urbana e rural), localidade, município, dados da vítima (faixa etária, sexo, região anatômica atingida), sintomas e sinais apresentados, circunstâncias do acidente, tempo decorrido entre o acidente e o atendimento, a quantidade de ampolas utilizadas e o tipo de soro no tratamento das vítimasRESULTADOS: Foram atendidos em média 124 casos de acidentes ofídicos por ano (76,71 casos por 100.000 habitantes/ano), sendo a maioria acidentes botrópicos e os pacientes constituídos por indivíduos adultos do sexo masculino e trabalhadores rurais, picados nos membros inferiores. Mais de 30% dos casos foram atendidos seis horas após o envenenamento e o atendimento após 24 horas é um fator de risco para complicações, uma vez que sete dos oito pacientes que apresentaram complicações foram atendidos depois de um dia do acidenteCONCLUSÃO: Apresentou um crescente constante nos casos, o que gerou um ponto de reflexão preocupante, que pode estar associado a dois fatores, onde um volta-se para a melhora no deslocamento das vítimas (melhorias nas estradas dos ramais e implantação de lancha do SAMU) facilitando mais o transporte e na cobertura de telefonia melhorando a comunicação, ou a falha das políticas de saúde pública na oferta de melhores condições e orientações para a população

Accident and vascular injury with stingray in the Alto Juruá, Acre, Brazil: a case report / Acidente e lesão vascular com arraia no Alto Juruá, Acre, Brasil: um relato de caso

INTRODUCTION: Injuries caused by fish are common and considered a neglected health problem with high morbidity and low lethality. Noteworthy are the envenomings by freshwater stingrays, which are considered very serious and one of the most important injuries caused by aquatic animals in South America. CASE PRESENTATION: To describe an accident and vascular injury with venomous stingray animals in the Alto do Juruá, Acre, Brazil. Male patient admitted due to stingray in the left lower extremity 20 days ago. CONCLUSION: The freshwater stingray, due to its sharp characteristics, injured the great saphenous vein, requiring surgical intervention. The situation presented negative evolution due to the lack of necessary procedures in the first attendance, such as the proper cleaning of the wound and the removal of the sting.

INTRODUÇÃO: Acidentes com peixes, denominados de ictismo, são comuns e são considerados um problema de saúde negligenciado, de alta morbidade e baixa letalidade. Destacam-se os envenenamentos por arraias de água doce, pois são considerados muito graves e uma das mais importantes lesões causadas por animais aquáticos na América do Sul. APRESENTAÇÃO DO CASO: Descrever um acidente e lesão vascular com animais peçonhentos do tipo arraia no alto do Juruá, Acre, Brasil. Paciente do sexo masculino, admitido devido a ferroada de arraia no membro inferior esquerda há 20 dias. CONCLUSÃO: O ferrão da arraia de água doce por possuir características pontiagudas lesionou a veia safena magna, necessitando de uma intervenção cirúrgica. O quadro apresentou evolução negativa devido a não realização de procedimentos necessários no primeiro atendimento, como a limpeza adequada do ferimento e a retirada do ferrão.

Snakebites in the Municipality of Tarauacá, Acre, Western Brazilian Amazon / Acidentes ofídicos no Município de Tarauacá, Acre, Oeste da Amazônia brasileira

INTRODUCTION: Snakebites are a public health problem and are considered a common clinical emergency in several tropical countries, especially in rural and forested regions where these animals are more frequent. It is estimated that approximately 28,800 cases of snakebites per year occur in Brazil, with an average of 119 deaths, in which the north region has the highest rate of incidence. However, the accuracy of these data ends up being brought into question, since there are undoubtedly many cases of under-reporting and even cases that are not reported at all, due to logistical and geographical reasons or due to a lack of preparation as to the precise identification of the problem. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the epidemiological characteristics of the reported cases of snakebites victims in the municipality of Tarauacá (Acre), comparing the morbidity coefficient with other Amazonian regions, and to observe possible factors associated with the appearance of complications in these cases. METHODS: This is a retrospective descriptive study through the analysis of the clinical-epidemiological information found on the notification sheets of the Information System of Notification Diseases of victims of snakebites that occurred during the period between 2012 and 2016 in Tarauacá. RESULTS: We recorded 96 snakebite cases during the study period, with the majority (95.8%) classified as botropic, followed by laquetics (3.2%) and one by a non-venomous snake (1%). No deaths were recorded. Snakebites were more frequent in rural areas (87.5%), most being an occupational accident, and affected mainly adult male individuals in their lower limbs. Most cases occurred during the rainy season and had a positive correlation with rainfall. CONCLUSIONS: The morbidity coefficient registered in Tarauacá in 2016 (72.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants) was higher than that recorded in the cities of Cruzeiro do Sul and Rio Branco and in the states of Acre and Amazonas. Although most patients receive antivenom within the first six hours, many victims do not receive appropriate hospital care until more than 24 hours after the envenoming, which is a factor associated with the appearance of complications.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os acidentes ofídicos constituem um problema de saúde pública, sendo considerada uma emergência clínica comum em vários países tropicais, principalmente em regiões de zona rural e florestadas, onde esses animais são mais frequentes. É estimado ocorrerem aproximadamente 28.800 casos anuais de acidentes ofídicos no Brasil, com uma média de 119 óbitos, no qual a região Norte apresenta a maior incidência. Todavia, a precisão desses dados acaba sendo questionada, pois devem ocorrer muitas subnotificações e mesmo não notificações por questões logísticas e geográficas ou decorrentes ao despreparo quanto à identificação precisa do agravo. OBJETIVO: Descrever características epidemiológicas dos casos notificados de vítimas de acidentes ofídicos no município de Tarauacá (Acre), comparando o coeficiente de morbidade com outras regiões amazônicas e observar possíveis fatores associados ao surgimento de complicações dos casos. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo retrospectivo através da análise das informações clínico-epidemiológicas das fichas de notificação do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação de vítimas de acidentes ofídicos ocorridos durante o período de 2012 a 2016 em Tarauacá RESULTADOS: Foram registrados 96 casos durante o período de estudo, sendo a maioria (95,8%) classificada como botrópico, seguido de laquéticos (3,2%) e um por serpente não peçonhenta (1%). Nenhum óbito foi registrado. Os acidentes foram mais frequentes na área rural (87,5%), sendo um acidente ocupacional, acometendo principalmente indivíduos adultos do sexo masculino em seus membros inferiores. A maioria ocorreu durante a estação chuvosa e teve correlação positiva com a pluviosidade. CONCLUSÃO: O coeficiente de morbidade registrado em 2016 (72,5 casos por 100.000 habitantes) foi maior do que o registrado em Cruzeiro do Sul e Rio Branco e também para os estados do Acre e Amazonas. Apesar da maioria dos pacientes receber a soroterapia dentro das primeiras seis horas, muitos recebem o devido atendimento hospitalar após 24 horas decorrido o envenenamento, sendo um fator associado ao surgimento de complicações.

Delayed healthcare and secondary infections following freshwater stingray injuries: risk factors for a poorly understood health issue in the Amazon

Abstract INTRODUCTION This study aimed to describe the profile of freshwater stingray injuries in the State of Amazonas, Brazilian Amazon, and to identify the associated risk factors for secondary infections. METHODS This cross-sectional study used surveillance data from 2007 to 2014 to identify factors associated with secondary infections from stingray injuries. RESULTS A total of 476 freshwater stingray injuries were recorded, with an incidence rate of 1.7 cases/100,000 person/year. The majority of injuries were reported from rural areas (73.8%) and 26.1% were related to work activities. A total of 74.5% of patients received medical assistance within the first 3 hours of injury. Secondary infections and necrosis were observed in 8.9% and 3.8%, respectively. Work-related injuries [odds ratio (OR) 4.1, confidence interval (CI); 1.87-9.13] and >24 hours from a sting until receiving medical care (OR; 15.5, CI; 6.77-35.40) were independently associated with the risk of secondary bacterial infection. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, work-related injuries and >24 hours from being stung until receiving medical care were independently and significantly associated with the risk of secondary infection. The frequency of infection following sting injuries was 9%. The major factor associated with the risk of secondary bacterial infection was a time period of >24 hours from being stung until receiving medical care.

Scorpion stings and spider bites in the Upper Juruá, Acre - Brazil / Acidentes com aranhas e escorpiões no Alto Juruá, Acre - Brasil

INTRODUCTION: Epidemiological information on poisonings by venomous animals is fundamental in order to elaborate proposals for educational campaigns for prevention of poisonings, and may contribute to the improvement of the care of patients admitted to health facilities OBJECTIVE: Thus, the objective is to analyze the epidemiological profile of spider and scorpion poisoning in the Upper Juruá region, Western Amazonia, Brazil, from 2012 to 2017. METHODS: Epidemiological data were obtained from the records of SINAN (Information System of Notifiable Diseases) in the Epidemiological Surveillance Sector of the Juruá Regional Hospital located in Cruzeiro do Sul. RESULTS: There were 207 cases of accidents with arachnids, predominantly stinging by scorpions (148 cases, 71.9%), in the Regional Epidemiological Surveillance Sector of the Juruá Regional Hospital located in Cruzeiro do Sul. The average morbidity coefficient during the study period was 12 cases per 100,000 inhabitants for spider bites and 29.28 for scorpion stings. There was no correlation between spider and scorpion incidents with rainfall over the months during the study period. CONCLUSION: The average incidence of spider and scorpion incidents in the Upper Juruá region is one of the highest recorded for the Brazilian Amazon and is higher than the averages for Brazil, the Northern region and the state of Acre. Incidents with spiders and scorpions were not correlated with rainfall, and other factors associated with species biology or with human activities related to the temporal distribution, therefore there could be a risk of an arachnid incident throughout the year.

INTRODUÇÃO: Informações epidemiológicas sobre envenenamentos por animais peçonhentos são fundamentais para elaborar propostas de campanhas educativas para prevenção e podem contribuir para a melhoria do atendimento de pacientes admitidos nas unidades de saúde OBJETIVO: Assim, o objetivo é Analisar o perfil epidemiológicos sobre o envenenamento por aranhas e escorpiões ocorridos na região do Alto Juruá, Amazônia Ocidental, Brasil no período de 2012 a 2017. MÉTODO: Os dados epidemiológicos foram obtidos a partir das fichas do SINAN (Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação) no Setor de Vigilância Epidemiológica do Hospital Regional do Juruá localizado em Cruzeiro do Sul. RESULTADOS: Foram registrados 207 casos de acidentes com aracnídeos, predominando as picadas por escorpiões (148 casos; 71,9%). A média do coeficiente de morbidade durante o período de estudo foi de 12 casos por 100.000 habitantes para o araneísmo e de 29,28 para o escorpionismo. Não houve correlação entre os acidentes com aranhas e escorpiões com a pluviosidade ao longo dos meses durante o período de estudo. CONCLUSÃO: A média da incidência de acidentes com aranhas e escorpiões na região do Alto Juruá é uma das maiores registradas para a Amazônia brasileira e é maior do que as médias para o Brasil, região Norte e para o estado do Acre. Os acidentes com aranhas e escorpiões não estiveram correlacionados com a pluviosidade, podendo outros fatores associados a biologia das espécies ou com as atividades humanas relacionados com a distribuição temporal, estando assim o risco de acidente com aracnídeos durante todo o ano.

Accidentes y muertes por animales venenosos en Argentina durante el período 2000- 2011 / Accidents and deaths by venomous animals in Argentina during the period 2000-2011

En Argentina los accidentes causados por animales venenosos constituyen un problema de salud pública. En este estudio analizamos los accidentes y muertes por envenenamientos por mordedura o picadura de serpientes, escorpiones y arañas, y las muertes causadas por abejas- avispas-avispones, centípedos, animales marinos, otros artrópodos y otros animales venenosos en Argentina, recibidos por las autoridades sanitarias nacionales. Se analizó la información sobre accidentes y muertes producidas por este tipo de animales que fueron recibidas por el Ministerio de Salud de la Nación durante el período 2000-2011. Debido al tipo de sistema de notificación solo se pudieron calcular tasas de morbilidad y letalidad en los accidentes por arañas, escorpiones y serpientes. Contrariamente a lo que se suponía, no fueron estos los grupos que mayor cantidad de muertes causaron en el período de estudio, sino los himenópteros (abejas-avispas- avispones). El actual esquema de notificación de envenenamiento por animales venenosos provee información importante para el sistema sanitario. Sin embargo, deben realizarse modificaciones a fin de mejorar el conocimiento epidemiológico referente a envenenamientos por la mordedura o picadura de animales venenosos. De esta manera, se podrá progresar en la implementación de las medidas de prevención de estas patologías, su atención a nivel del primer nivel asistencial y la planificación de la producción de antivenenos.

In Argentina, accidents by venomous animals are a problem of public health. In this study we analyzed the envenomation caused by the bite or sting of snakes, scorpions and spiders and the deaths produced by the envenomation caused by this animals and the deaths caused by bees-wasp-hornet, centipedes, marine animals, other arthropods and other venomous animals in Argentina, recorded by the National Ministry of Health in the period 2000 ­ 2011. Most of the accidents were caused by scorpions nevertheless the highest lethality was observed in snakebites envenomation. Contrary to the general suppositions, hymenoptera (bee-wasp- hornet) were the responsible for the highest number of deaths. The present system of information of envenomation by venomous animals gives important information. However some modifications should be done to achieve a best knowledge of the epidemiological situation of the envenomation caused by bites or sting of the different venomous animals, in order to improve the prevention measures as well as the attention at the first level of sanitary assistance and the planning of antivenom production.

Injuries caused by freshwater stingrays in the Tapajós River Basin: a clinical and sociodemographic study

Abstract INTRODUCTION Freshwater stingray envenomations are an important cause of morbidity in riverine populations living in various regions of Brazil. The sequelae include temporary or permanent disability. This study aimed to identify sociodemographic, clinical, and therapeutic aspects related to stingray injuries in such populations. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Extractive Reserve of Tapajos-Arapiuns, located in the municipalities of Santarém and Aveiro (Pará State). A convenience sample comprising 300 local adults was used to obtain data by means of a questionnaire/ interview. RESULTS Overall, 19 (6.3%) participants reported having sustained a stingray injury in the 12 months prior to the study. All 19 were injured either while fishing (n=13 [68.4%]) or engaging in other riverine activities. Most injuries [n=14 (73.7%)] occurred from September through November, and most injured respondents [n=15 (78.9%)] reported seeing stingrays at beaches. Severe pain and the appearance of ulcers in the later stages of envenomation were described by 18 (94.7%) and 12 (63.2%) participants, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Freshwater stingray injuries, which should be considered occupational injuries, are common in the study area, especially in places like beaches or in the lakes that form during the dry season, when stingrays are routinely observed. A significant proportion of respondents was unaware of the correct first aid measures and had insufficient resources to treat the complications of these injuries in the locality where they reside. Interactive activities involving local residents - such as lectures and the distribution of simple pamphlets providing information about stingray injuries - are needed.

Infrared thermography to diagnose and manage venomous animal bites and stings

Abstract INTRODUCTION Infrared imaging (IR) is a noninvasive technique that quantifies body surface temperature, producing a digital color image. IR has been used to study diseases in which skin temperature can reflect the presence of inflammation. METHODS This was an observational pilot study of eight patients envenomed by snakes, spiders, and scorpions. All patients were examined using a thermal camera. RESULTS In all cases, we obtained infrared images that corroborated clinical findings indicating localized effects of venom, specifically inflammation. CONCLUSIONS IR has potential for use as a research, diagnostic, and monitoring tool for localized effects of animal venoms.

Venomous and poisonous arthropods: identification, clinical manifestations of envenomation, and treatments used in human injuries

Abstract This review presents the main species of venomous and poisonous arthropods, with commentary on the clinical manifestations provoked by the toxins and therapeutic measures used to treat human envenomations. The groups of arthopods discussed include the class Arachnida (spiders and scorpions, which are responsible for many injuries reported worldwide, including Brazil); the subphylum Myriapoda, with the classes Chilopoda and Diplopoda (centipedes and millipedes); and the subphylum Hexapoda, with the class Insecta and the orders Coleoptera (beetles), Hemiptera (stink bugs, giant water bugs, and cicadas), Hymenoptera (ants, wasps, and bees), and Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths).

A snakebite caused by a bushmaster (Lachesis muta): report of a confirmed case in State of Pernambuco, Brazil

ABSTRACTWe report a case of envenomation caused by a bushmaster ( Lachesis muta) in a male child in State of Pernambuco, Brazil. The victim showed discrete local manifestations, but presented altered blood coagulation 2 hours after the bite. Ten ampoules of bothropic-lachetic antivenom therapy were administered, and 48 hours later, the patient showed discrete edema, pain, and ecchymosis around the bite and normal blood coagulation. The patient was discharged 5 days after the envenomation. The prompt administration of specific treatment was important for the favorable outcomes observed.

Injuries caused by aquatic animals in Brazil: an analysis of the data present in the information system for notifiable diseases

We present a review of injuries in humans caused by aquatic animals in Brazil using the Information System for Notifiable Diseases [ Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN)] database.

Infiltrated plaques resulting from an injury caused by the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris): a case report

Several species of octopus are considered venomous due to toxins present in the glands connected to their "beak", which may be associated with hunt and kill of prey. Herein, we report an accident involving a common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) that injured an instructor during a practical biology lesson and provoked an inflamed infiltrated plaque on the hand of the victim. The lesion was present for about three weeks and was treated with cold compresses and anti-inflammatory drugs. It was healed ten days after leaving a hyperchromic macule at the bite site. The probable cause of the severe inflammation was the digestive enzymes of the glands and not the neurotoxins of the venom.(AU)