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Use of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Travel-Acquired Cutaneous Myiasis in a Pediatric Patient

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A pediatric patient presented to the emergency department with ambiguous scalp lesions following recent travel to a tropical region. Despite a prompt physical examination and subsequent laboratory investigations, a definitive diagnosis could not be established. An experienced ultrasound radiologist from our team was consulted to assist in the diagnostic process using ultrasound imaging. The ultrasound revealed the presence of subcutaneous larvae, confirming a diagnosis of cutaneous myiasis, which had initially mimicked a more common dermatological condition. This case highlights the valuable role that ultrasound can play in elucidating rare skin lesions, particularly in regions where clinicians may lack experience with tropical diseases due to their infrequent presentation. Early use of ultrasound in similar cases may expedite diagnosis and treatment, improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary interventions.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.83640

Authors: Ziad Letaïef, Marie-Sofie Walgraeve

Institutions: Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, AZ Sint-Jan

Language: English

Topic: Dermatological diseases and infestations

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4410171443