Hemodynamic assessment of pediatric scorpion envenomation using the non-invasive cardiac output monitor (ICON)

Scorpion envenomation represents a significant public health challenge in Morocco and North Africa due to the severe complications it can cause. Among these, cardiogenic shock is particularly feared. This study focuses on the use of the non-invasive cardiac output monitor ICON to understand the hemodynamic profile of children admitted to pediatric intensive care for scorpion envenomation complicated by cardiogenic shock. We conducted a prospective study in the pediatric intensive care unit at Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakech. Children aged 0 to 16 years admitted for scorpion envenomation were included. Using the ICON device, we measured several hemodynamic parameters upon admission and two hours after treatment. The children were divided into two groups: those who had received dobutamine prior to admission and those who received it upon admission. Out of 30 initially considered patients, only 8 were analyzed. The average age was 9.5 years. The results showed a significant improvement in hemodynamic parameters after the administration of dobutamine, including an increase in cardiac output and a reduction in vascular resistance. The conclusions of this study highlight the potential of the ICON monitor to improve the management of children in cardiogenic shock due to scorpion envenomation. The adoption of non-invasive techniques could transform the treatment and prognosis of these patients. However, further research with a larger sample size is needed to strengthen these findings.