Myiasis and extremity involvement: A concise update

Abstract

The human myiasis or infestation of larvae of various species of fly bots is uncommon but interesting health challenge in some parts of the world. The basic knowledge of this disease, however, should be beneficial to clinicians across disciplines as a spectrum of manifestations involving various organs are described in the medical literature. The extremity involvement is rather uncommon and is often found with underlying associated conditions. The diagnosis and identification of the causative species is important for documentation and management. Clinical suspicion, wound lavage, dressing, and debridement are important steps in optimal management. Appropriate systemic pharmacotherapy is supplemented for quick recovery. Prevention, however, coupled with avoidance of predisposing factors is the best management in both community and health-care settings. As the disease is more commonly noted in lower socioeconomic conditions and rural settings, the working knowledge of this condition should come in handy in anticipating, suspecting, and thus diagnosing the condition early for a prompt recovery.