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Dermal myiasis in an Australian traveller
D M Rubel1, B K Walder, A Jopp-McKay
1Department of Dermatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW.
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Australian travellers can contract myiasis, a fly larvae infestation, from endemic areas. A case of furuncular myiasis caused by Dermatobia hominis in a returning tourist highlights the need for prompt diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Tropical Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Myiasis is the infestation of animal or human tissue by fly larvae.
- Certain fly species, like Cochliomyia hominivorax and Chrysoma bezziana, cause significant disease in livestock and humans globally.
- Infrequent cases of myiasis are reported in travellers returning from endemic regions.
Observation:
- A patient returning to Australia after extensive travel in South America presented with a subcutaneous nodule.
- The nodule contained a large larva, identified as Dermatobia hominis.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with furuncular myiasis, a specific type of myiasis characterized by boil-like lesions.
- Dermatobia hominis, commonly known as the human botfly, was the causative agent.
Implications:
- The case underscores the risk of introducing non-native fly species into Australia through international travel.
- Accurate identification of the myiasis-causing larva is crucial for appropriate management and public health.
- Physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for furuncular myiasis in returning travellers.