Otomyiasis: Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction Myiasis is a disease caused by fly larvae that grow in the tissues of animals and humans. It can cause a variety of local symptoms, like erythema or pain, depending on its location, and generalized symptomatology, such as fever and malaise. Myiasis can generate severe complications, for instance sepsis, or directly impact vital tissues. Its management varies depending on the location, and on the preferences of the doctor that faces this challenge. Myiasis usually occurs in tropical countries, and, in many places, it is not a rare condition. The cases are rarely reported, and there are no published management protocols. Objective To review the literature regarding the most common agents, the predisposing factors and the treatment alternatives for otic myiasis, a rare form of human myiasis caused by the infestation of fly larvae in the ear cavities. Data synthesis We present a systematic review of the literature. The search in five databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, LILACS and RedALyC) led to 63 published cases from 24 countries, in the 5 continents. The ages of the patients ranged from newborn to 65 years old. The most common agents belong to the Sarcophagidae or Calliphoridae families. Chronic otitis media, previous otic surgical procedures, mental deficit, alcohol or drug abuse, sleeping outdoors, prostration, and malnutrition were predisposing factors. The treatment alternatives are herein discussed. Conclusion The results highlight the need for monitoring, follow-up and standardization of medical approaches.

Primary Myiasis in Surgical Wound of Mandible Symphisis Fracture

“…Myiasis is a parasitic disease caused by certain y larvae at some stage of their development, in which human and animal tissues form part of their diet [1] and can be classi ed as primary and secondary. In the primary, the larvae feed on living tissue, and on the secondary tissue necrotic tissue [2].…”

“…Socioeconomic conditions are associated with disease risk factors, including advanced age, lack of hygiene, previous diabetes, housing in rural areas, homelessness, neurological diseases, and low purchasing power [3]. It a ects many regions of the body: nasal mucosa, ear canal, urogenital mucosa, and may occur associated with other pathologies such as squamous cell carcinoma in the oral region, or in traumatized areas [1,2,[4][5][6]. Its treatment is generally performed by debridement, larvae and devitalized tissue removal associated with the administration of ivermectin and antibiotics [7,8].…”

A rare case report of aural myiasis in a 24-day old neonate in Tanzania

“…It is a rare condition and occurs most frequently in children and the mentally retarded adults. [1][2][3] The term "myiasis" is derived from the Greek word "myia" meaning fly. The word myiasis was first used by Hope, in 1840 to refer to a parasitic disease caused by certain fly larvae during a particular stage of their life cycle when they feed on dead, necrotic or living animal and human tissues for a certain period of time.…”

“…Such conditions have been useful for larval debridement therapy of necrotic tissue. 2,3,6,11,[15][16][17] However, unintentional infestation may manifest in otorhinolaryngological cavities that are conducive for growth of the larvae, including the external auditory canal and nasal cavities. 1,6,15,17 Flies are generally attracted to the odor of decaying necrotic tissue, which can arise from chronic otorrhoea or sinusitis.…”

“…1,6,7,11,12,15,17 Although most patients have an uncomplicated course of treatment for aural myiasis, early intervention is key towards avoiding complications involving adjacent structures. [1][2][3]6,12,15 Myiasis in the neonatal period is rare and there are very few reports of neonatal myiasis. Unhygienic conditions in a rural setting predisposes to this condition.…”