Work

Cutaneous myiasis in a Serbian traveller returning from Kenya

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cutaneous myiasis is an ectoparasitic disease caused by fly larvae. In non-endemic regions it is rare, often unfamiliar to clinicians and readily misdiagnosed. CASE PRESENTATION: A 24-year-old Serbian traveller developed painful furuncular lesions on the thigh after returning from Kenya. The lesions were initially treated as insect bites with intramuscular corticosteroid, antihistamines and topical betamethasone-gentamicin. Spontaneous expulsion of a larva led to the recognition of myiasis. METHODS AND RESULTS: Three third-instar (L3) larvae were surgically removed. Morphological features and mitochondrial cox1 sequencing identified Cordylobia anthropophaga. Genetic analysis confirmed 99 % identity with reference sequences. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the challenges associated with diagnosis of furuncular myiasis in travellers. Awareness of travel history, maintenance of clinical suspicion and molecular analysis are essential for accurate diagnosis. Timely larval removal and prophylactic antibiotics minimise complications and improve outcomes.

Source: Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease

DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2025.102904

Authors: Stefan Momčilović, Anson V. Koehler, Robin B. Gasser

Institutions: University of Nis, Klinički centar Niš, The University of Melbourne

Language: English

Topic: Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies

Subfield: Insect Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,710