Case Report

Umbilical Myiasis in a Healthy Adult

Authors: Fone-Ching Hsiao, MD, Yulong Chen, MD, Li-Way Chang, MD

Abstract

Myiasis occurs mainly on exposed skin–typically on the face, scalp, arms or legs. What may be the first recorded case of umbilical myiasis in a healthy adult is herein presented. The underlying entomology is briefly discussed to explain the clinical presentation.


Key Points


* Myiasis is an infestation of living vertebrates, including humans, by dipterous larvae.


* Myiasis typically involves exposed skin, and is therefore easily treated, but can involve deep tissues and organs.


* A case of umbilical myiasis in a healthy adult is reported, thought to be due to poor umbilical hygiene, which provided an ideal site for egg laying by Musca domestica.

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