External Ophthalmomiasis Cases in Şırnak

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Parasitology
• Travel Medicine

Background:

• Myiasis, a dermatological condition caused by fly larvae, accounts for about 20% of travel-related diseases.
• Ocular involvement in myiasis cases is reported in approximately 5% of instances.
• Oestrus ovis (O. ovis) larvae are the primary agents responsible for human ocular infestations, leading to external ophthalmomyiasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report cases of external ophthalmomyiasis caused by Oestrus ovis (O. ovis) larvae.
• To emphasize the clinical presentation and successful treatment of O. ovis-induced ocular myiasis.
• To highlight the significance of O. ovis in the differential diagnosis of eye conditions in relevant geographic areas.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis of external ophthalmomyiasis through the identification and removal of first-stage Oestrus ovis (O. ovis) larvae.
• Clinical observation of three patients presenting with symptoms of ocular irritation and eyelid swelling.
• Symptomatic treatment following larval extraction.

Main Results:

• Three patients diagnosed with external ophthalmomyiasis after Oestrus ovis (O. ovis) larvae were removed from their conjunctiva.
• Patients presented with foreign body sensation, burning, stinging, watering, redness, and eyelid swelling.
• Complete resolution of all symptoms within days post-larval removal.

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmomyiasis caused by Oestrus ovis (O. ovis) requires consideration in the differential diagnosis of patients with eye complaints.
• This condition is particularly relevant in regions with significant sheep and goat farming.
• Prompt identification and removal of O. ovis larvae ensure favorable patient outcomes.