[Cutaneous myiasis--an imported case caused by the South American fly larvae Dermatobia hominis]

Cutaneous myiasis is the infestation of skin or mucous membranes with larvae of flies. We describe a case caused by Dermatobia hominis, acquired in South America. Cutaneous myiasis should be suspected in a patient with a secreting, non-healing furuncular skin-lesion and relevant travel history. The patient may remember being bitten by insects. Sensation of movement in the lesion, which may be observed, supports the diagnosis. Correct diagnosis will prevent unnecessary treatment with antibiotics, and surgery will almost always prove unnecessary.