Descrição espacial do escorpionismo no Maranhão e sua relação com a distribuição geográfica das espécies de escorpião do gênero Tityus

Abstract

Scorpionism is a relevant public health issue in Brazil, with a growing incidence of cases, especially in the Northeast and Southeast regions. In the state of Maranhão, the diversity of species of the genus Tityus, many of which have recognized medical importance, has significantly contributed to the increase in scorpion sting incidents. This study aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of scorpion sting cases in the state and their relationship with the occurrence of Tityus species, using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and geoprocessing tools. The investigation revealed incidence patterns and the identification of critical areas, indicating that ecological, climatic, and human factors directly influence the occurrence of scorpion envenomation cases. A higher predominance was observed among male individuals, of mixed race (parda), aged between 20 and 39 years, with an educational level corresponding to incomplete elementary education. Among the risk groups, cases involving pregnant women were recorded, and the most frequently affected anatomical site was the hand. The average recorded lethality rate was 0.27%, with approximately 86.31% of confirmed cases progressing to recovery. Among the municipalities, Coelho Neto stood out as having the highest percentage of notifications and being the most individually affected. These results reinforce the importance of integrating epidemiological surveillance, ecological studies, and spatial technologies as support tools for the formulation of public policies aimed at the prevention and control of scorpionism. Keywords: scorpion, Incidence, Scorpion venom.