Aural myiasis in Ancient Rome: Celsus and the ear maggots.

Area of Science:

• Medical History
• Otolaryngology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Aural myiasis, while extensively documented in modern literature, lacks historical analysis.
• The earliest Western medical descriptions of ear conditions are crucial for understanding historical medical practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first description of aural myiasis in Western medical literature.
• To provide historical context for the understanding of ear diseases.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a scholarly review of ancient Greek and Roman medical texts.
• Utilized linguistic analysis and Latin text translation to identify and interpret relevant cases.
• Focused on texts describing ear diseases and maggot infestations.

Main Results:

• Identified Celsus's *De Medicina* (first century CE) as containing the earliest reported case of aural myiasis in Latin literature.
• Celsus described infestations by *Wohlfahrtia magnifica* maggots and their treatment.
• This represents the first documented instance in Western medical history.

Conclusions:

• Ancient descriptions of aural myiasis offer valuable insights into historical otology.
• Comparative studies across different cultures and time periods are needed for a comprehensive understanding.
• Historical perspectives can inform contemporary approaches to ear diseases.