The neutralizing capacity of Androctonus crassicauda antivenom against Mesobuthus eupeus scorpion venom

Scorpion envenomations are considerable health problem in tropical and subtropical regions. There are approximately 1500 species of scorpions worldwide. The number of dangerous species in the Buthidae family is significantly higher than in other families of scorpions. Mesobuthus eupeus is a member of Mesobuthus genus, Buthidae family. In this study, the potency and para-specific activities of Androctonus crassicauda antivenom were investigated against M. eupeus scorpion venom. The median lethal dose of M. eupeus and A. crassicauda scorpion venoms were found to be 0.18 mg/kg, 15.45 mu g/kg by i.c.v injection route. The antivenom showed neutralization effect against the venoms of M. eupeus. One milliliter of A. crassicauda antivenom neutralizes 464LD(50) of M. eupeus and 940LD(50) A. crassicauda venom on mice. Western blotting demonstrated immunologic reaction with the venoms. The monovalent antivenom has immunoactivity and neutralizing capacity to the scorpion venoms. This study indicates that the antivenom produced by Refik Saydam Hygiene Center could be used for the treatment of M. eupeus stings in Turkey. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.