Nasal and ophthalmomyiasis: case report

Abstract

Objective: We report a rare case of a 51-year-old woman with ocular and nasal infestation by Oestrus ovis.

Method: Clinical case report and review of current literature regarding nasal and ophthalmomyiasis.

Results: Myiasis is infestation of the tissues and organs of vertebrates by certain dipteran fly larvae. Oestrus ovis myiasis is endemic in the region from North Africa to South Asia, but few cases are reported within the UK. A 51-year-old patient presented and was treated successfully in Sunderland Royal Hospital for combined ocular and nasal infestation with Oestrus ovis.

Conclusions: Oestrus ovis has a largely subtropical distribution; however, it is important to remember the diversity of disease which can present within the UK from an external source. This point is illustrated by this rare case, which highlights the fact that prompt treatment can avoid poor outcomes for our patients.