An untreated patient with Mesobuthus tamulus (Indian red scorpion) envenomation deteriorates over 24 hours despite initial improvement. The most common cause of death in such patients is:

• A Acute tubular necrosis with hyperkalaemia
• B Disseminated intravascular coagulation
• C Acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema ✓
• D Intracranial haemorrhage from hypertensive crisis

Explanation

Death from Indian red scorpion envenomation results from myocardial injury and left ventricular failure driven by the catecholamine surge, producing acute pulmonary oedema and cardiogenic shock. Acute kidney injury may follow hypotension but is secondary, and DIC and intracranial haemorrhage are not recognised features of this envenomation. Early prazosin and antivenom are given specifically to prevent this outcome.

Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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