Not the usual suspects: human wound myiasis by phorids

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Public Health

Background:

• Myiasis, the infestation of animal tissues by dipteran larvae, is common in animals but rare in humans in temperate climates.
• Human myiasis cases in the U.S. often involve imported Dermatobia hominis or facultative myiasis from calliphorids.
• Myiasis can present medical and legal challenges, including implications for neglect investigations.

Observation:

• Two cases of wound myiasis caused by phorid fly larvae were documented in southeastern Nebraska within a 10-month period.
• Degree-day analysis suggested initial infestation occurred 2-3 days prior to discovery in both cases.
• This represents a rare occurrence, as previous reports of phorid wound myiasis are scarce.

Findings:

• Phorid larvae were identified as the causative agents in both reported cases of human wound myiasis.
• The short interval between cases suggests a potential underestimation of phorid fly importance in human myiasis.
• This finding challenges the typical understanding of common myiasis etiologies in the United States.

Implications:

• The increased incidence of phorid myiasis suggests a need for heightened awareness among healthcare professionals in primary care settings.
• Further research is warranted to understand the ecological factors contributing to phorid myiasis in non-endemic regions.
• Accurate identification of myiasis-causing agents is crucial for appropriate medical treatment and legal considerations.