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A Neonatal Imaging Model of Gram-Negative Bacterial Sepsis
Published on: August 12, 2020
Neonatal umbilical myiasis with sepsis
Y C Beeregowda1, B Kiran, N Yellappa Gowda
1Department of Paediatrics, Sri Devaraj URS Medical College, Tamaka, Kolar, 563101, Karnataka, India. rljhunit8@gmail.com
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|October 1, 2010
Summary
A rare case of neonatal umbilical myiasis caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax fly larvae occurred in a 9-day-old infant. This umbilical myiasis led to sepsis, highlighting a critical health risk in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Myiasis, infestation by fly larvae, is typically observed in animals, often affecting open wounds.
- The New World screw-worm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) is an obligate ectoparasite primarily affecting livestock and wildlife.
- While human cases are infrequent, certain species can pose a risk to human health.
Observation:
- A 9-day-old neonate from a rural area presented with umbilical myiasis.
- The infestation was caused by fly larvae identified as Cochliomyia hominivorax.
- The neonate developed sepsis secondary to the umbilical myiasis.
Findings:
- This report details an extremely rare instance of neonatal umbilical myiasis.
- The case is complicated by the development of sepsis in the affected infant.
- Cochliomyia hominivorax, typically an animal parasite, was the causative agent.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for unusual parasitic infections in neonates, even in developed regions.
- Early detection and prompt treatment of myiasis are crucial to prevent severe complications like sepsis.
- Public health awareness regarding zoonotic diseases and parasitic infections in vulnerable populations, such as newborns, is essential.
