Palpebral myiasis in a Danish traveler caused by the human bot-fly (Dermatobia hominis)

Abstract

Purpose: To demonstrate a case of palpebral myiasis caused by Dermatobia hominis in a Dane traveling in the Brazilian rain forest.

Methods: Surgical removal and histological examination.

Results: Within three weeks after returning from the Brazilian rain forest, the patient developed a localized swelling of the left upper eyelid and follicular conjunctivitis. A funnel containing a larva was found between the cilia. The larva was excised together with surrounding inflammatory tissue. The clinical findings as well as zoological and pathological examinations indicated a case of palpebral myiasis caused by Dermatobia hominis. The larva was removed in its third stage four weeks from symptom debut.

Conclusions: Infestation with Dermatobia hominis should be suspected when itching and red swelling of the lid are present in patients who have been to Central and South America.