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A case of naso-ophthalmic myiasis

Hülya Eyigör1, Turhan Dost, Volkan Dayanir

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Medicine Faculty of Adnan Menderes University, Aydin, Turkey. hulinar@yahoo.com

Kulak Burun Bogaz Ihtisas Dergisi : KBB = Journal of Ear, Nose, and Throat
|March 19, 2009
PubMed

Insights

A sheep farmer contracted Oestrus ovis myiasis, a parasitic infection affecting the nose and eye. Prompt removal of larvae and medical intervention were crucial for recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Parasitology
  • Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Myiasis, often an occupational disease, commonly affects individuals with animal contact, particularly sheep.
  • Oestrus ovis, a botfly species, is a known cause of myiasis in livestock and occasionally humans.

Observation:

  • A 33-year-old male agricultural research assistant presented with severe nasal and ocular symptoms.
  • Symptoms included foreign body sensation, discharge, and cough, indicative of nasal and external ophthalmomyiasis.
  • Ophthalmologic examination revealed active Oestrus ovis larvae in the right eye.

Findings:

  • Larvae were successfully removed from the eye and nasal passages.
  • Nasolacrimal duct irrigation and endoscopic examination confirmed extensive larval infestation.
  • Parasitological identification confirmed the causative agent as Oestrus ovis.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the risk of zoonotic transmission of Oestrus ovis to humans in agricultural settings.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for managing ophthalmomyiasis and nasal myiasis.
  • Understanding occupational risks is essential for preventing parasitic infections in agricultural workers.

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