Forunculoid cutaneous myiasis (Larvas in the skin): what is it, symptoms and treatment

Forunculoid cutaneous myiasis is a disease that arises when the larva of the fly of the species Dermatobium hominis penetrates the skin, remaining in the fabric and causing the appearance of a herida with pus and which causes much pain. This fly is gray in color with black lines on the chest and with a metallic blue belly, and it manages to penetrate the skin of the person through a herida or no.

These suelen flies are found in humid and mountainous places and they can be found from Mexico to Argentina, being important for their control in all these Latin American countries. It is important to go to the doctor if you notice the presence of any sign that indicates the presence of these larvae, because they must be removed as soon as possible to prevent further infections from occurring that could complicate the person’s health status.

Main signs and symptoms

After the deposition of the huevos by the female fly, after 6 days the larvae were able to penetrate the skin quickly, causing the appearance of some signs and symptoms, including the main ones:

• Formation of heridas in the skin, causing reddening and slight swelling in the region;
• Liberation of a yellowish liquid or with blood, for the heridas in the skin;
• Sensation that something is moving underneath the skin;
• Pain or beginning in the place of the herida.

The diagnosis of cutaneous myiasis in humans is carried out by the dermatologist or the infectologist, through the observation of the signs and symptoms that the person presents.

How is the treatment performed?

The treatment consists of removing the larvae from the skin, being important that they die before removing them, as they contain some spines in their body that cling to the skin and prevent their extraction.

One of the strategies to kill and remove the larva is through suffocation, having to apply an adhesive for 1 hour in the area where it is found. Next, remove the adhesive and check if the larva is stuck to it, otherwise, a small pressure must be made in the area to salt it. In order to remove the larva, the doctor must prescribe an antibiotic ointment to prevent the herida from becoming infected.

The use of tweezers to extract the larva must only be used if the compression is not sold, it must be carried out by a doctor to avoid infections. In the most serious cases, the doctor may indicate the performance of a small surgery where a cut is made in the skin that allows the larva to be removed, or he could indicate the use of antiparasitic drugs to kill the larva of the fly. Learn more about the medication used in the treatment of cutaneous myiasis.

How to prevent contagion

Some of the best ways to prevent fly larvae infection are:

• Close windows and doors after nightfall;
• Place hammocks or a suitcase in the windows;
• Avoid having food, basura or liquids accumulated inside the house.

Furthermore, repellent should be used, especially in areas most affected by this type of fly.