Cutaneous Myiasis (Tumbu Fly larvae): A Case Report

Abstract

The invasion of the skin and subcutaneous tissue by the larvae of flies is known as cutaneous myiasis. It can be confused with cutaneous furunculosis and this could result in unnecessary treatment with antibiotics. The case of a six-week old infant who presented with what at first was thought to be furunculosis, but which later turned out to be infestation with the African tumbu fly(Cordylobiaanthropophaga), is described. A total of 47 larvae were extracted from the patient's lesions. The case illustrates the importance of considering myiasis in the differential diagnosis of furunculosis in people living in, and travellers returning from endemic areas. Examination revealed a baby with multiple pustules affecting the scalp (occipital), trunk (posterior), dorsum of the arms and the axillae, with a few on the face. (Fig 1)