scorpion bite and ms

[tobaira]

I have RR MS and was stung by a scopion early this morning.  I was stung on my left big toe.  My left leg just happens to be my bad leg, from the MS.  My reaction was minimal but my leg is feeling like it is asleep from my knee down.  What type of interaction between the scorpion venom and the MS should I expect?

[tobaira]

Thank you for your information.  I am doing much better.  The numbness started to dissapate around 1 a.m.  I am also going to see my physician next week.  
Thank you,
Tobaira

[Quixotic1]

Hi, I'm not sure the answer to this is really known or if my answer is correct.  I am a physician and I did my post-doctoral fellowship in Immunology, so I understand the mechanisms pretty well.  I spent 3 years in the desert in the Indian Health Service and treated a bunch of venomous stings and bite (rattlesnake, black widow, scorpion).  Venom is a protein and a very strong stimulant to the immune system.  People without MS often have remarkable immunologic reactions after an invenomation such as prolonged hives or "serum sickness"  with a reactive arthritis, fever, and flu-like illness.

Given this information I wouldn't be surprised if the sting could (empahsize "could" not "will") bring on a relapse.  Anything that stimulates the immune system, like an infection, a vaccination, or coming out of pregnancy, etc. can bring on a relapse.  So it makes sense that the sting "might" also.

That's just my best educated guess.  I may well be wrong.  Let us know how you're doing.

Quix, MD