Cutaneous myiasis due to Cochliomyia hominivorax in a drug user

Abstract

Myiasis is the condition resulting from the invasion of tissues or organs of man or animals by dipterous larvae. The blowflies (Calliphoridae) of Argentina comprise several species that may cause myiasis by colonizing wounds or infected body orifices, and one specific parasite: Cochliomyia hominivorax. This species often causes traumatic myiasis in cattle, dogs and cats, and it is not rare in humans. The larvae consume living tissues, so they are dangerous unless speedily removed. Immediate operative exploration along with the removal of larvae and primary defect closure is recommended in every case. Here we report a case of myiasis in a scalp wound caused by blunt force trauma to the area, in a male patient with a case history of alcohol and drug abuse. Seventy-one living larvae were extracted from the wound and determined as C. hominivorax in the Forensic Entomology Laboratory. Given the aggressiveness of these larvae, specific and quick diagnosis as well as the application of appropriate treatment is crucial.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Myiasis in Different Areas of Chittagong, Bangladesh

“…is another important risk factor causing myiasis. Trombetta et al (2009) reported traumatic myiasis habitually in cattle, dogs and cats whereas Farkas and Hall (1998) found traumatic myiasis infestation >10% of animals at sheep, cattle and horses in Hungary. Additionally, Dik et al (2012) found 22 traumatic myiasis in animals in Turkey;…”

Molecular basis of resistance to organophosphate insecticides in the New World screw-worm fly

“…Myiases due to C. hominivorax are also not rare in humans and generally occur in open wounds [8][9][10], mucosae [11][12][13][14][15] and particularly in people suffering from poor hygiene or neglect [16]. Infestations in humans are an increasing issue [17] and introductions beyond the New World [18,19] are a persisting concern.…”

Morphological and Molecular Characterizations of Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Larvae Responsible for Wound Myiasis in French Guiana

“…Its larvae produce myiasis and primarily feed on living warm-blooded animals (such as cattle and other livestock). The larvae can cause ocular [35], oral [36], umbilical [37], subcutaneous [38], and nasal [39] infections. In addition, C. hominivorax is responsible for the most common forms of human myiasis [40] and causes serious lesions in the abdomen, lower limbs, and various parts of the head (ears and eyelids) [41].…”