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Published on: August 23, 2022
Umbilical myiasis in a human newborn
E A Duro1, J C Mariluis, P R Mulieri
11Hospital Zonal General de Agudos Magdalena V de Martínez, Universidad de Moron, Buenos Aires, Republica Argentina, Argentina. eduro@unimoron.edu.ar
Summary
New-world screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) caused rare umbilical myiasis in a human infant. This case highlights the potential for this animal parasite to infest human neonates, even in urban settings.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- The new-world screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is an obligate ectoparasite primarily affecting animals.
- Myiasis, or fly larvae infestation, in human neonates is uncommon and typically occurs in neotropic regions.
Observation:
- A rare case of umbilical myiasis caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae is reported in a newborn infant from an urban area.
- While umbilical myiasis is known in animals, human umbilical cord and abdominal tissue infestation is exceptionally rare.
Findings:
- The causative agent was identified as Cochliomyia hominivorax, a blowfly from the family Calliphoridae.
- This species typically infests open wounds in animals, making human neonatal infestation a notable deviation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering zoonotic potential of parasites like Cochliomyia hominivorax in human health.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing myiasis, even in unusual presentations.
- Public health awareness may be needed regarding potential transmission routes in non-endemic or urban settings.
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