The largest fossil of the segmented spider Parvithele muelleri Wunderlich, 2017 (Mesothelae: Parvithelidae) from Cretaceous Burmese amber

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  The largest fossil of the segmented spider Parvithele muelleri Wunderlich, 2017 (Mesothelae: Parvithelidae) from Cretaceous Burmese amber Abstract A new specimen of the fossil spider Parvithele muelleri Wunderlich, 2017 (Araneae: Mesothelae) is described from the mid-Cretaceous (ca. 99 Ma) Burmese amber of Myanmar. Like the original holotype, the new specimen is a mature male, which clearly preserves a series of tibial macrospines, similar to the condition in the extant genus Liphistius Schiødte, 1849. Given that the single extant mesothele family, Liphistiidae, is predicted to have radiated ca. 39–58 million years ago, the occurrence of somewhat modern-looking male pedipalp spination in older fossil mesotheles is of considerable interest. The new specimen also shows spinnerets in a relatively posterior position, although variability observed in extant species suggests that this trait may be of limited systematic value. Of particular note is the presence of a large and well-dev...

Scorpion Stings and Antivenom Coverage in the Brazilian Amazon

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Scorpion Stings and Antivenom Coverage in the Brazilian Amazon

Abstract

Introduction

Scorpion envenomation in the Amazon causes variable clinical manifestations. Data on these incidents, as well as on the demand, distribution, and use of antivenoms for treatment, are still limited in the literature. This study describes the epidemiology of scorpion envenomation and antivenom coverage in the Legal Amazon area from 2010 to 2020.

Methods

Data on scorpion sting victims, such as sex, age, circumstances of the incident (including location and time), and severity of the case, were obtained from an open health data system called the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The data on antivenom use to treat scorpion stings in each Amazonian state was estimated from consolidated data from the Strategic Inputs Information System.

Results

From 2010 to 2020, 62,388 people were envenomed by scorpions in the Legal Amazon area, resulting in 118 deaths (a fatality rate of 0.19%). The regular distribution of antivenom by the Brazilian Ministry of Health resulted in the allocation of 109,276 vials to the region. However, only 62.2% (of the regional antivenom stockpile 67,994 vials) was used. The state of Pará recorded the highest number of deaths from scorpion stings (33% of total deaths) and the highest use of antivenom per year (∼2705 vials over the 10-y period). Tocantins presented the highest incidence rate, with 119 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

Conclusion

Although the availability of antivenom in the Legal Amazon between 2010 and 2020 exceeded actual demand, this was not enough to prevent the deaths of 118 victims of scorpion stings. These fatalities primarily affected demographic groups without referral units in their regions and point to critical failures in the spatial distribution of emergency medical services. Rural communities at risk of animal envenomation in the Amazon need timely treatment, a crucial condition for saving lives.

Martins, J. G., Pardal, O., & Procópio, L. (2025). Scorpion Stings and Antivenom Coverage in the Brazilian Amazon. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1177_10806032261417950