Oral squamous cell carcinoma associated with myiasis

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Parasitology
• Public Health

Background:

• Myiasis is defined as infection by fly larvae feeding on host tissues.
• While common in animals, human myiasis, particularly oral myiasis, is rare and often linked to poor oral hygiene.
• Oral myiasis can lead to severe complications, including hemorrhage and tissue destruction.

Observation:

• A case of oral myiasis in a 70-year-old, indigent, alcohol-dependent male is presented.
• The patient presented with an extensive necrotic wound in the mandible and a fetid odor.
• The infestation was attributed to the patient's socioeconomic conditions and associated poor hygiene.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates the potential for severe oral myiasis in vulnerable populations.
• Mechanical removal of larvae is the primary treatment, with macrolide antibiotics showing recent promise.
• The patient's condition underscores the link between poverty, hygiene, and parasitic infections.

Implications:

• Effective prevention strategies, including public health education, are crucial, especially in developing countries.
• Addressing socioeconomic factors is essential for controlling parasitic infections like myiasis.
• This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing rare but potentially life-threatening conditions.