FURUNCULAR MYIASIS

Abstract

Myiasis is the invasion of living tissues of humans and other animals by the fly larvae (maggots) of the order Diptera [1]. Despite the presence of many species, the two common flies that affect human beings in the tropics are Dermatobia hominis, the human botfly and Cordylobia anthropophaga, the tumbu fly [2].Cases of human cutaneous myiasis caused by maggots of the tumbu fly have also been reported from Asia region, southwestern Saudi Arabia [3]. However, most of the cases reported outside the tropical Africa had imported their disease from Africa [4].In patients presenting with cutaneous lesions after return from tropical countries, myiasis has to be considered as a differential diagnosis. Most physicians may never encounter myiasis outside the endemic areas. However, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of a new skin lesion in patients who have traveled to endemic areas. The knowledge of the disease, its management and prevention is necessary for all the individuals who are planning to visit tropical Africa.