About Cavitary myiasis

What is Cavitary myiasis?

Cavitary myiasis is a type of myiasis, which is an infestation of the body by fly larvae. It occurs when fly larvae, usually of the species Dermatobia hominis, infest the body cavities of humans and other animals. The larvae feed on the tissue of the host, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes infection. In severe cases, the larvae can cause organ damage and even death.

What are the symptoms of Cavitary myiasis?

Symptoms of cavitary myiasis include:

-Painful swelling in the affected area
-Foul-smelling discharge from the wound
-Fever
-Headache
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Fatigue
-Loss of appetite
-Weight loss
-Anemia
-Weakness
-Difficulty breathing
-Coughing up blood
-Skin Lesions or ulcers near the affected area

What are the causes of Cavitary myiasis?

Cavitary myiasis is caused by the larvae of certain species of flies, such as the screwworm fly, the flesh fly, and the blowfly. These flies lay their eggs in open wounds or other areas of the body where there is decaying tissue, such as the nose, ears, eyes, and mouth. The larvae then feed on the decaying tissue, causing further damage and infection.

What are the treatments for Cavitary myiasis?

1. Mechanical removal: This involves manually removing the maggots from the affected area.

2. Chemical treatment: This involves using insecticides or other chemicals to kill the maggots.

3. Antibiotics: This involves using antibiotics to treat any secondary infections caused by the maggots.

4. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the maggots or to repair any damage caused by them.

5. Maggot debridement therapy (MDT): This involves using sterile maggots to eat away dead tissue and promote healing.

What are the risk factors for Cavitary myiasis?

1. Poor oral hygiene
2. Poor nutrition
3. Diabetes
4. Immunosuppression
5. Chronic lung disease
6. Alcoholism
7. Malignancy
8. Chronic skin conditions
9. Open wounds
10. Prolonged hospitalization

Is there a cure/medications for Cavitary myiasis?

Yes, there are treatments available for cavitary myiasis. Treatment typically involves the removal of the maggots and the application of topical antibiotics. In some cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed.