A patient suffering from a scorpion sting presents with tongue fasciculations and temperature reversal. What is the organism?

The organism associated with the symptoms of tongue fasciculations and temperature reversal in a patient who has suffered a scorpion sting is indeed Centruroides exillicauda, which is one of the venomous scorpions found in certain regions.

The symptoms presented—tongue fasciculations—indicate a disruption in the neuromuscular junction, which can occur due to the neurotoxic effects of certain scorpion venoms. The venom from Centruroides exillicauda contains neurotoxins that can interfere with neurotransmitter release, leading to muscle twitching and fasciculations. Temperature reversal is another characteristic symptom that can occur due to the dysautonomia caused by the toxins in the venom, affecting the body's temperature regulation.

Knowing that these symptoms are distinct and closely associated with scorpion stings helps to identify the correct organism. Other organisms listed, such as venomous snakes or spider species like the brown recluse or black widow, do not produce the same neurotoxic effects or the specific symptom complex of tongue fasciculations and temperature reversal. Their venoms and the resulting clinical pictures differ significantly, leading to different presentations.

Recognizing the specific features of the poisons—especially in the context of sc