Myiasis infestation in advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral myiasis is a rare manifestation in humans and is vulnerable to attack in conditions leading to persistent mouth opening along with poor oral hygiene, suppurating lesions and cancerous wound, mainly in tropical countries. Myiasis is diagnosed clinically based on the presence of maggots and traditional management is the mechanical removal of the larvae. This is a case report of myiasis in a 44-year-old man diagnosed with invasive oral squamous cell carcinoma. The treatment consisted of manual removal of the larvae and cleaning with aqueous chlorhexidin 0.12%. The patient's management was antisepsis, larval removal and general care, performed weekly. The patient died 2 months later. The management of patients by healthcare service and hygiene orientations is recommended to prevent oral myiasis infestation, mainly in patients living in fly breeding habitats and who do not comply with basic oral hygiene measures, which may be make individuals more prone to develop myiasis.