Genera
- Several genera of dipterous flies may cause myiasis. Among them are the following:
- Calliphora
- Chrysomyia
- Cochliomyia
- Cordylobia
- Dermatobia
- Gasterophilus
- Lucilia
- Phormia
- Sarcophaga
- Wohlfahrtia
Species
- There are several species in each genus of flies capable of causing myiasis.
Microbiologic Characteristics
- Flying larvae (arthropods)
Epidemiology
- Tropical and subtropical climates
Infections
- Myiasis
- Larvae invade skin and subcutaneous tissue and cause local inflammation.
Diagnosis
- Identification of larvae in the affected area
Treatment
- 1 usually successful technique is occlusion of the orifice with Vaseline (or other petroleum jelly). Often pork fat is used in endemic countries. The larva's oxygen supply is reduced and larvae will often spontaneously emerge from the skin. Larvae can be gently removed with tweezers. Larvae should not be forcibly removed.
Alternative Treatment
- Surgical removal of the larvae may be necessary if the previous technique is not successful.
[Outline]