Head and neck myiasis: a retrospective multicenter study of 27 patients in Venezuela

Head and neck myiasis remains an underreported public health concern in endemic regions and may cause extensive tissue destruction and permanent functional sequelae. We aimed to describe its clinical features, associated conditions, management, and sequelae in Venezuelan patients.

This retrospective study included individuals treated between 2024 and 2026 at two referral hospitals in Caracas, Venezuela. Demographic, clinical, etiologic, treatment, and outcome data were analyzed descriptively.

Twenty-one (77.8%) patients were male and six (22.2%) were female; the mean age was 53.0 years. Extraoral involvement was observed in 74.1% of patients and intraoral involvement in 33.3%. Trauma and malignancy were the leading underlying conditions (37.0% each). Basal cell carcinoma (n=5), squamous cell carcinoma (n=4), and melanoma (n=1) were the malignant neoplasms identified. All patients received ivermectin and systemic antibiotics, and mechanical larval removal was performed in 25 (92.6%). Cutaneous defects occurred in 14 (51.9%) patients, and mucosal/labial defects in 13 (48.1%).

Data corroborate the burden documented in low- and middle-income settings and reinforce head and neck myiasis as an underrecognized public health concern associated with potentially preventable morbidity and permanent sequelae. Strengthened surveillance, prevention, and timely access to specialized care are warranted.