Centruroid.es sculpturatus/exilicauda, better known as the bark scorpion, is a member of the class Arachnida and the family Buthidae and the most dangerous scorpion within the United States. It is of particular concern to pediatric emergency medical care providers due to its potentially fatal effects on children. Centruroides sculpturatus/exilicauda, better known as the bark scorpion, is a member of the class Arachnida and the family Buthidae and the most dangerous scorpion within the United States. The bark scorpion is endemic to the southwestern United States and Mexico, with stings commonly reported in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California, and Nevada. Centruroides sculpturatus burrows are commonly found under the bark of trees (hence the name), but also in fallen trees, piles of stones or firewood, lumber, rock walls, and other rocky crevices. About 10 of all calls received by the Arizona Poison Control Center, based in Phoenix, are related to scorpion stings. While mortality is low today for these types of stings, the pediatric population is especially at risk for severe reactions and Centruroides sculpturatus envenomation can be fatal for these patients. Early identification of common signs and symptoms and a better understanding of treatment protocols have resulted in more effective care of patients and a lessening of the adverse reactions of the venom.
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