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Cutaneous myiasis in Arkansas
Jorge F Jimenez1, Debra Brent, Allen D Gerber
1Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio, USA.
The Journal of the Arkansas Medical Society
|September 10, 2002
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of cutaneous myiasis, a fly larvae infestation, diagnosed and treated in Hot Springs, USA. The patient, returning from Costa Rica, underwent successful manual and surgical removal of the larvae.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Tropical Medicine
- Dermatology
Background:
- Myiasis is a parasitic infestation caused by fly larvae (Diptera).
- Cutaneous myiasis is prevalent in tropical regions but exceptionally rare in the United States.
- This condition involves fly larvae infesting the skin.
Observation:
- An unusual case of cutaneous myiasis occurred in a 71-year-old male traveler returning from Costa Rica.
- The patient presented with skin lesions after visiting a rainforest.
- The infestation was located in subcutaneous tissues.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed through the identification of Diptera larvae.
- One larva was manually extracted by the patient.
- Three additional larvae were removed via surgical excision.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare tropical diseases in returning travelers.
- Demonstrates successful diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for cutaneous myiasis.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding parasitic infections in non-endemic areas.