MIASIS OCULAR Y BUCAL, A PROPÓSITO DE DOS CASOS / MYASIS EYE AND MOUTH, BY THE WAY OF TWO CASES

La palabra "miasis" proviene del griego, "myia" que significa mosca. La enfermedad corresponde a los daños causados por la invasión de larvas de moscas a tejidos del hombre u otros vertebrados

The term 'Myiasis' originates from the ancient Greek word 'myia', meaning 'fly'. This disease refers to tissue damage caused by the infestation of fly larvae in humans or other vertebrates

Children hospitalized for myiasis in a reference center in Uruguay / Niños hospitalizados por miasis en un centro de referencia de Uruguay

Abstract Background: Myiasis is an emerging disease caused by tissue invasion of dipteran larvae. In Uruguay, Cochliomyia hominivorax and Dermatobia hominis are the most frequent species. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics and the follow-up of children < 15 years hospitalized for myiasis in a reference center in Uruguay between 2010 and 2019. Methods: We conducted a descriptive and retrospective study by reviewing medical records. We analyzed the following variables: age, sex, comorbidities, origin, the month at admission, clinical manifestations, other parasitoses, treatments, complications, and larva species identified. Results: We found 63 hospitalized children: median age of 7 years (1 month-14 years), 68% of females. We detected risk comorbidities for myiasis (33%), of which chronic malnutrition was the most frequent (n = 6); 84% were from the south of the country; 76% were hospitalized during the summer. Superficial and multiple cutaneous involvements were found in 86%: of the scalp 50, furunculoid type 51, secondary to C. hominivorax 98.4%, and to D. hominis in 1.6%. As treatments, larval extraction was detected in all of them, surgical in 22%. Asphyctic products for parasites were applied in 94%, ether in 49. Antimicrobials were prescribed in 95%; cephradine and ivermectin were the most frequent. About 51% presented infectious complications: impetigo was found in 29, cellulitis in 2, and abscess in 1. Conclusions: Myiasis predominantly affected healthy schoolchildren during the summer months and was frequently associated with ectoparasites. Superficial infestation of the furuncle-like scalp by C. hominivorax was the most frequent form. Infectious complications motivated hospitalizations.

Resumen Introducción: La miasis es una enfermedad emergente producida por la invasión tisular por larvas de dípteros. En Uruguay, Cochliomyia hominivorax y Dermatobia hominis son las especies más frecuentes. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las características epidemiológicas y clínicas, y el seguimiento, de niños menores de 15 años hospitalizados por miasis en un centro de referencia del Uruguay entre 2010 y 2019. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo mediante la revisión de las historias clínicas. Se analizaron las siguientes variables: edad, sexo, comorbilidad, procedencia, mes al ingreso, cuadro clínico, otras parasitosis, tratamientos, complicaciones y especie de larva identificada. Resultados: Se encontraron 63 casos de niños hospitalizados, con una mediana de edad de 7 años (rango: 1 mes a 14 años) y el 68% de sexo femenino. Se identificó comorbilidad de riesgo para miasis (33%), siendo la desnutrición crónica la más frecuente (n = 6). El 84% eran procedentes del sur del país y el 76% fueron hospitalizados en los meses estivales. Se encontró afectación cutánea superficial y múltiple en el 86%: de cuero cabelludo en 50, de tipo forunculoide en 51, secundaria a C. hominivorax en el 98.4% y a D. hominis en el 1.6%. Se realizó extracción larvaria en todos los casos, que fue quirúrgica en el 22%. Se aplicaron productos asfícticos para parásitos en el 94%, con éter en 49 niños. Se prescribieron antimicrobianos en el 95%; los más usados fueron cefradina e ivermectina. El 51% presentaron complicaciones infecciosas: 29 impétigo, 2 celulitis y 1 absceso. Conclusiones: La miasis afectó predominantemente a escolares sanos y durante los meses estivales, y se encontró frecuentemente asociada con ectoparasitosis. La infestación superficial del cuero cabelludo de tipo forunculoide por C. hominivorax fue la forma más frecuente. Las complicaciones infecciosas motivaron las hospitalizaciones.

Miasis por Cochliomyia hominivorax en la Argentina / Myiasis by Cochliomyia hominivorax in Argentina

Miasis es la infestación de humanos y animales por larvas de dípteros ciclorrafos con invasión y destrucción tisular. Cochliomyia hominivorax es responsable del 80% de las miasis en la Argentina. Es importante realizar el diagnóstico etiológico específico debido a la agresividad de las larvas de esta especie, las que pueden provocar cuadros clínicos graves. Presentamos cuatro casos de miasis por C. hominivorax. Dos de los pacientes residían en la ciudad de Buenos Aires y trabajan en zona rural, y los otros dos residían en el Gran Buenos Aires.

Miasis is the infestation of man and animals by larvae of flies belonging to the order Diptera, suborder Cyclorrapha. Eighty percent of miasis in Argentina is caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax, a species that induces pronounced tissue invasion and destruction, and results in severe clinical forms. Because of the aggressiveness of its larvae, it is important to reach a specific etiological diagnosis. We present four cases of miasis by C. hominivorax in two patients living in the city of Buenos Aires but working in a rural area and two patients living in the Greater Buenos Aires.

A review on the occurrence of Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Brazil / Revisão da ocorrência de Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) no Brasil

Abstract Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858), the New World screwworm, causes primary myiasis in wild and domestic animals in tropical and subtropical regions of Brazil. Although this species is considered to occur throughout the country, organized information about its recorded distribution has not been available until now. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the historical and current data published on both immature (myiasis) and adult stages of C. hominivorax in Brazil. A total of 174 articles were found; of these, 141 articles reported myiasis cases in cattle (146 records), humans (68 records), and other mammalian hosts (40 records), and captures of adult flies were reported in 33 articles. C. hominivorax is widespread in Brazil, having been recorded in 208 municipalities in all major biomes of the country.

Resumo Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858), a mosca-da-bicheira, causa miíase primária em animais silvestres e domésticos em regiões tropicais e subtropicais do Brasil. Embora esta espécie seja considerada de ocorrência em todo o país, informações organizadas sobre sua distribuição com base em registros não estavam disponíveis até o momento. Este artigo teve como objetivo fornecer uma revisão abrangente dos dados históricos e atuais publicados sobre o registro de estágios imaturos (miíase) e adultos de C. hominivorax, no Brasil. De 174 artigos encontrados, 141 relataram casos de miíase em bovinos (146 relatos), humanos (68 relatos) e outros mamíferos hospedeiros (40 relatos) e capturas de adultos de C. hominivorax foram registradas em 33 artigos. C. hominivorax encontra-se amplamente distribuída no Brasil, tendo sido registrada em 208 municípios brasileiros em todos os principais biomas do país.

Identificación de larvas productoras de miasis obtenidas del cepario de la Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca con importancia en salud pública / Identification of Myasis-producing Larvae from the Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca

Resumen Las miasis son infestaciones parasitarias en humanos y animales causadas por estadios larvarios de moscas; son de distribución mundial y son una enfermedad frecuente en nuestro medio. En la literatura solo existen algunos casos reportados; por lo cual, su verdadera incidencia es difícil de establecer debido al sub-registro y ausencia de tipificación de larvas. Objetivo. Identificar, clasificar y caracterizar morfológicamente las larvas causantes de miasis como base para futuras aplicaciones e intervenciones en salud pública. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron 262 larvas obtenidas del cepario de la Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca que se encontraban almacenadas sin ningún tipo de identificación, organización e historia. Resultados. Se realizó la identificación con estereoscopio y claves dicotómicas de las familias Cuterebridae, Oestridae y Calliphoridae. Las especies encontradas son asociadas a diferentes tipos de miasis humana y animal, entre ellas; Dermatobia hominis, Dermatobia cyaniventris, Oestrus ovis, Cochliomyia hominivorax y Lucilia sp. Discusión. Las formas más comunes de este parasitismo son cavitarias y forunculares; causadas por Dermatobia hominis y Cochliomyia hominivorax, sin embargo, éstas no son de reporte obligatorio ante los servicios médicos humanos. Por lo tanto, es indispensable la información y capacitación de profesionales de la salud para la correcta conservación, identificación y reporte de las larvas extirpadas en pacientes con miasis, hasta el punto de ser considerada una práctica de rutina en el diagnóstico clínico.

Abstract Myiasis is the parasitic infestation of the body in humans and animals caused by larval stages of flies; such diseases are worldwide distributed and they are frequent in our environment. In the literature, there are only a few reports; therefore, its real incidence is difficult to be established due to sub-recorded cases and absence of larval typing. Objective. To identify, classify and morphologically characterize myasis-producing larvae of importance in public health. Material and methods. 262 larvae were analysed, obtained from the Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca that were stored without any identification, organization and history. Results. Larvae were identified using a stereomicroscope and morphology was based on dichotomous keys of the Cuterebridae, Oestridae and Calliphoridae families. The species found are associated with different types of myiasis, including; Dermatobia hominis, D. cyaniventris, Oestrus ovis, Cochliomyia hominivorax, C. macellaria and Lucilia spp. Discussion. As a conclusion, we found that cavitary and foruncular were the most common forms of this parasitism in the collection from the Universidad Colegio Mayor de Cundinamarca. and that Dermatobia hominis and Cochliomyia hominivorax were the main involved species; however, these are not mandatory reporting species for medical services. Therefore, generating information about preservation, identification and recording of myasis-producing larvae, as well as training of professionals in public health might be considered as a routine practice for an accurate clinical diagnosis.

Myiasis associated with an invasive ductal carcinoma of the left breast: case study

ABSTRACT Most breast cancers originate in the ductal epithelium and are referred to as invasive ductal carcinoma. In this study we report on the clinical procedures adopted to diagnose myiasis in association with infiltrating metastatic breast carcinoma in a female patient. A 41 years old woman came to the Federal Hospital of Andaraí complaining of intense itching, warmth, redness and hardening of the breast, which had acquired the aspect of an orange peel. A lesion in the left breast was cavitated, dimpled, had fetid odor, and had fibrotic and infected air nodules filled with exudate and Dipteran larvae. The tissue was cleaned and 33 larvae were extracted. The patient was hospitalized and received Ivermectin. Eighteen of the larvae extracted from the patient were placed in 70% alcohol, and twelve were placed in a container with sterile wood shavings under controlled conditions until they metamorphosed into adults. The taxonomic identification of the flies revealed that the culprit was Cochliomyia hominivorax. A histopathological exam conducted three months earlier had revealed infiltrating ductal carcinoma. Two months after the myiasis treatment, the breast tissue had healed. The patient had waited ten days from the onset of the myiasis to seek treatment, and that delay interfered negatively in the prognosis of both the neoplasm and the myiasis. This study is relevant to public health in view of the strong social impact of myiasis.

Proteolytic activity of excretory/secretory products of Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) / Atividade proteolítica de produtos de excreção/secreção de Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

The protein profiles and proteolytic activity of the excretory secretory products (E/SP) of the first (L1), second (L2) and third (L3) larval stages of Cochliomyia hominivorax were studied in the laboratory. Analysis on the E/SP protein profile was carried out using polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE). The E/SP of each larval stage (L1, L2 and L3) treated with protease inhibitors, containing 30µg, 40µg and 50µg of protein, was applied to the 10% polyacrylamide gel. The proteolytic activity of the crude E/SP was analyzed in gels copolymerized with gelatin and by colorimetric assays using azocasein as a substrate, with the characterization of the proteases using synthetic inhibitors. Different protein profiles were observed for the larval instars, with L1 presenting the most complex profile. Nevertheless, various protein bands were observed that were common to all the larval instars. The E/SP of all the instars showed proteolytic activity on gelatin, evidenced by proteolysis zones, predominantly with apparently higher molecular masses in L1, while for L2 and L3 the proteolysis zones could also be observed in regions with lower masses. Tests with protease inhibitors using gelatin as substrate showed that the E/SP of larvae were mainly composed of serine proteases. Additionally, inhibition was observed in L2 E/SP treated previously with EDTA, an inhibitor of metalloproteases. The assays with azocasein revealed a gradual increase of proteolytic activity on this substrate with larval development progress, with the strongest inhibitions being observed after treatments with 3,4-dichloroisocoumarin (DCI) for E/SP of L1, L2 and L3. These results suggest that C. hominivorax larvae produce different proteases, a fact that can be related to the parasite's vital processes for survival, such as penetration into the host's tissues and nutrition during the larval stage.(AU)

Os perfis protéicos e a atividade proteolítica dos produtos de excreção/secreção (PE/S) das larvas de primeiro (L1), segundo (L2) e terceiro (L3) estágios de Cochliomyia hominivorax foram estudados em laboratório. Os perfis protéicos foram obtidos por eletroforese em géis de poliacrilamida (SDS-PAGE). Os PE/S de cada fase larval (L1, L2 e L3), tratados com inibidores de proteases, contendo 30µg, 40µg e 50µg de proteína, foram aplicados em géis de poliacrilamida a 10%. A atividade proteolítica dos PE/S na sua forma nativa, foi analisada em géis co-polimerizados com gelatina e por testes colorimétricos usando a azocaseína como substrato, com a caracterização das proteases feita por meio de inibidores sintéticos. Diferentes perfis protéicos foram observados para os instares larvais, com L1 apresentando o perfil mais complexo. Apesar disso, foram observadas várias bandas protéicas comuns a todos os estágios larvais. Os PE/S de todos os instares mostraram atividade proteolítica sobre a gelatina, evidenciada por zonas de proteólise, com predominância de massas moleculares aparentes mais altas em L1, enquanto que para L2 e L3 as zonas de proteólise puderam ser observadas também em regiões de menores massas. Os testes com inibidores de proteases usando a gelatina como substrato mostraram que os PE/S de L1, L2 e L3 eram compostos principalmente de serina-proteases. Adicionalmente, inibição foi observada nos PE/S de L2 tratada previamente com EDTA, um inibidor de metalo-proteases. Os ensaios com a zocaseína revelaram um aumento gradual da atividade proteolítica sobre este substrato com o progresso do desenvolvimento larval, com a mais forte inibição sendo observada após o tratamento com 3,4 dicloroisocumarina (DCI) para os PE/S de L1, L2 e L3. Estes resultados sugerem que as larvas de C. hominivorax produzem diferentes proteases, fato que pode estar relacionado a processos vitais para a sobrevivência do parasita, tais como a penetração nos tecidos dos hospedeiros e nutrição durante os estágios larvais.(AU)

Dietas larvais alternativas para criação massal da mosca da bicheira, Cochliomyia hominivorax / Alternative larval diets for mass rearing of screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax

A criação massal da mosca da bicheira, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae), para programas que utilizam a Técnica do Inseto Estéril nas Américas faz parte de um dos maiores programas do mundo de criação de insetos em larga escala. A maior parte do custo e do trabalho necessários para a produção massal está relacionada com a dieta larval, o que torna importante o seu aprimoramento levando-se em conta sua eficiência, custo e praticidade. Neste trabalho, foram realizados dois bioensaios com dietas alternativas feitas a partir de produtos disponíveis no mercado brasileiro com o objetivo de avaliar a viabilidade e eficiência dessas dietas para criações de mosca da bicheira no Brasil. Foram testadas duas dietas líquidas (tendo como bulking agents bagaço de cana ou fibra de coco), uma de carne, e outra de gel. Os parâmetros biológicos (peso das larvas, viabilidade larval, peso de pupas, porcentagem de emergência de adultos e razão sexual) estiveram, em todos os casos, dentro de parâmetros satisfatórios para a criação laboratorial de C. hominivorax e as dietas não diferiram estatisticamente entre si. Devido a vantagens importantes, como alta viabilidade larval e menor custo, recomenda-se a dieta de gel para as criações de larvas da mosca da bicheira no Brasil.

The mass rearing of the screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae), for programs that integrate the Sterile Insect Technique in the Americas is part of one of the largest insect mass rearing programs in the world. Most of the cost and labor required in mass rearing systems is related to the larval diet, what enhances the relevance of the constant development of novel diets taking into account their effectiveness, cost and practicability. In this research, two bioassays with alternative diets made using local products were performed in order to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of these diets for screwworm rearing in Brazil. Two liquid diets (having sugarcane bagasse or coconut fiber as bulking agents), a meat diet, and a gelled diet were tested. The biological parameters evaluated (larval weight, larval viability, pupal weight, adult emergence, and sex ratio) were satisfactory according to mass rearing standards and the diets did not differ statistically (P > 0.05). Due to its higher number of advantages, as high larval viability and lower cost, the gelled diet developed is recommended for screwworm larvae rearing in Brazil.

Determinação da temperatura base para o desenvolvimento embrionário da mosca-da-bicheira / Assessment of the threshold temperature for the embryonic development of the screwworm fly

Após sucessivas campanhas de erradicação da mosca-da-bicheira, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), através da utilização de insetos estéreis, sua distribuição geográfica atual abrange apenas áreas do Caribe e dos países da América do Sul, com exceção do Chile. Para o planejamento de novos programas de controle nos países do MERCOSUL, deve-se contar com o máximo de informações possíveis relacionadas à ecologia desse parasita, como suas exigências térmicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a constante térmica (K), as temperaturas base (Tb), ótima (To) e a influência de temperaturas entre 15 e 35°C sobre a duração do período embrionário de C. hominivorax. Depois de separados das massas, os ovos foram inoculados sobre papel de filtro umedecido em placas de Petri, as quais foram colocadas em câmaras climatizadas do tipo B.O.D. Considerando o menor período de desenvolvimento e máxima viabilidade de ovos, a temperatura ótima foi estimada em 35°C. A temperatura base foi estimada em 13,1°C, com uma constante térmica de 9,17GD.

After successful eradication campaigns against the screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), through the release of sterile insects, its current geographical distribution comprehends only some Caribbean islands and South American countries, except Chile. Before planning new control programs in MERCOSUR countries, information related to the ecology of this parasite, as its thermal requirements, are necessary. This research aimed to assess the thermal constant (K), the threshold (Tb) and optimal (To) temperatures, as the influence of temperature between 15 and 35°C over the length of the embryonic period of C. hominivorax. Eggs were separated from the masses and inoculated on moistened filter paper in Petri dishes, which were held in acclimatized chambers. Considering the shortest development period and the highest egg hatch values, the optimal temperature was 35°C. The threshold temperature was 13.1°C and the estimated thermal constant was 9.17 degrees-days.

First Report of Myiasis Caused by Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in a Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patient in Argentina

Myiasis is usually caused by flies of the Calliphoridae family, and Cochliomyia hominivorax is the etiological agent most frequently found in myiasis. The first case of myiasis in a diabetic foot of a 54-year-old male patient in Argentina is reported. The patient attended the hospital of the capital city of Tucuman Province for a consultation concerning an ulcer in his right foot, where the larval specimens were found. The identification of the immature larvae was based on their morphological characters, such as the cylindrical, segmented, white yellow-coloured body and tracheas with strong pigmentation. The larvae were removed, and the patient was treated with antibiotics. The larvae were reared until the adults were obtained. The adults were identified by the setose basal vein in the upper surface of the wing, denuded lower surface of the wing, short and reduced palps, and parafrontalia with black hairs outside the front row of setae. The main factor that favoured the development of myiasis is due to diabetes, which caused a loss of sensibility in the limb that resulted in late consultation. Moreover, the poor personal hygiene attracted the flies, and the foul-smelling discharge from the wound favoured the female's oviposition. There is a need to implement a program for prevention of myiasis, in which the population is made aware not only of the importance of good personal hygiene and home sanitation but also of the degree of implication of flies in the occurrence and development of this disease.

Ocorrência e tratamento de miíases cutâneas em ovinos criados em condições semiáridas no norte de Minas Gerais / Occurrence and treatment of cutaneous myiasis in sheep reared in semi-arid conditions in northern Minas Gerais

A ocorrência de miíases cutâneas foi verificada em 10 diferentes criatórios de ovinos no norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil, durante o período de um ano, onde foram analisados os fatores relacionados a essas parasitoses. Os rebanhos possuíam predominantemente animais mestiços Santa Inês, criados em sistemas semiextensivo. Foram registrados 50 casos e a maior incidência foi observada nos meses de março (22%) e abril (18%), períodos de maiores temperaturas e umidade relativa do ar. As patas foram as regiões mais frequentemente acometidas (34% dos casos). As lesões por pododermatites (38% dos casos), onfaloflebites (10%), linfadenite (6%) e dermatobiose (6%) foram os fatores mais frequentemente relacionados às miíases. As taxas de ocorrência não diferiram quanto ao sexo e idade dos animais. Foi constatado que a maioria dos proprietários não realizava o tratamento das miíases de forma correta, sendo que após a implantação de uma terapia preconizada nesta pesquisa, 92% das lesões apresentaram cura entre sete e trinta dias. Os resultados apontam a importância de estratégias para prevenção baseadas nos fatores relacionados neste estudo. A inspeção constante dos ovinos, identificando-se os ferimentos e tratando-se as lesões precocemente, devem constituir práticas rotineiras, principalmente no período chuvoso e quando estão presentes nas patas dos animais.

Cutaneous myiasis was investigated in 10 sheep herds during one year in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil, and factors related to its occurrence were analyzed. The sheep were predominantly hybrid Saint Inês, bred in semi-extensive systems. A total of 50 cases were registered and the highest incidence occurred during March (22%) and April (18%), months with high temperatures and high relative humidity of the air. There was no influence of sex and age for the occurrence of myiasis. The lesions were mostly found on the legs (34% of the cases). Pododermatitis (38% of the cases), omphalophlebitis (10%), lymphadenitis (6%) and dermatobiosis (6%) were the predisposing factors more frequently associated with myiasis. The myiasis was not correctly treated by the owners, but after implantation of a correct therapy, 92% of the lesions presented cure within 7 to 30 days. The results show the importance of preventive strategies based on the predisposing factors identified in this study. The constant inspection, identifying wounds and precociously treating the lesions, should be routine especially at the end of rainy season and when predisposing factors are present.

Epidemiological study of myiases in the Hospital do Andaraí, Rio de Janeiro, including reference to an exotic etiological agent

Myiases are infestations with dipteran larvae in both necrosed and living tissues, the food source of these insects. These illnesses occur in warm humid climates, and are most frequent in developing countries. We assessed the epidemiological aspects and the influence of climate on the occurrence of myiases and the bioagents in patients admitted to the federal Hospital do Andaraí in Rio de Janeiro from February 2007 to 2008. The influence of abiotic factors (temperature, humidity, and rainfall) on the incidence of myiases was investigated by using the Pearson's correlation test. Of the 40 patients studied, the prevalence of myiases was higher in adults, particularly in the 40 to 65 year-old (37.5 percent) African descent males (57.5 percent). Most of the injuries were caused by trauma (62.5 percent). Some patients made use of licit (50 percent) and illicit drugs (17.2 percent). The occurrence of myiases was not affected by the abiotic factors investigated. The cases reported here were treated in only one hospital, indicating that the disease is relatively common. The most frequent bioagent was Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), but Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius), Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) and Dermatobia hominis (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) were also detected causing myiases. Chrysomya albiceps is an exotic etiologic agent of myiases.

Neonatal Umbilical Myiasis with Sepsis.

The authors report a 9-day old neonate from a rural area with umbilical myiasis caused by fly larvae of Cochliomyia hominivorax. The blowfly causing this infestation belongs to the family Calliphoridae (Diptera) and the genus Cochliomyia that usually infests only open wounds of animals. The new-world screw-worm fly Cochliomyia hominivorax, is an obligate ectoparasite of domestic and wild animals, and in some cases may affect humans. This is the rare reported case of neonatal umbilical myiasis with sepsis in the world literature.

Ophthalmomyiasis: Three cases from North India.

Three cases of external ophthalmomyiasis are reported here. The larvae were identified to be Oestrus ovis in two cases and Cochliomyia hominivorax in one. Two of the patients were immunocompetent while one was undergoing treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of eyelid. In the latter myiasis led to complete destruction of the eye.

Miasis en cavidad oral por Cochliomyia hominivorax: reporte de un caso / Myiasis in oral cavity by Cochliomyia hominivorax: a case report

La miasis es la infección de humanos y otros vertebrados, por larvas o pupas de moscas. La miasis bucal es unacondición rara no reportada en el Perú. Se presenta un caso de miasis en cavidad oral por Cochliomyia hominivorax en un varón de 62 años procedente de Huacho (Lima, Perú) con postración por enfermedad de Parkinson.

Myasis is an infection of humans and other vertebrates by fly larvaes. It is a rare condition which has not been described in Peru. We presented a case report of an oral myasis by Cochliomyia hominivorax in a 62 year-old patient from Huacho (Lima, Peru) with prostration for Parkinson disease.

Factores de riesgo asociados a la miiasis por cochliomyia hominivorax en fincas ganaderas de Puerto Boyacá (Colombia) / Associated risk factors to myiasis by cochliomyia hominivorax on cattle farms in Puerto Boyacá (Colombia)

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo-transversal en el municipio de Puerto Boyacá para identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a la miiasis por Cochliomyia hominivorax en bovinos. En 44 fincas ganaderas seleccionadas en un muestreo por conveniencia, se efectuó una entrevista personal a cada ganadero acerca del uso del suelo, sistema de producción ganadera y productos para el tratamiento de la miiasis traumática, entre el 6 y el 15 de febrero del 2007. El material suministrado para recolección de larvas fue recogido entre la última semana de abril y la primera semana de mayo del 2007. Análisis de frecuencias, medidas de asociación y pruebas no paramétricas fueron utilizados. Se detectaron 49 casos (0,4 por ciento) de miiasis por C. hominivorax en 12.325 bovinos registrados, en 18 (41 por ciento) de 44 fincas ganaderas. La causa de herida más frecuente fue abrasión por alambre de púas en 16 casos (32,7 por ciento). Los lugares de infestación más frecuente fueron el ombligo y el escroto con 9 casos (18,4 por ciento) cada uno. Se encontró asociación entre grupos etarios en bovinos y la presentación de casos por C. hominivorax (P=0,000; α=0,05). Se halló asociación entre el sistema de producción bovina y la presentación de casos por C. hominivorax (P=0,044; α=0,05). Se registró el uso de productos no adecuados en el tratamiento de la miiasis traumática como creolina (31 fincas), gasolina (4 fincas), aceite quemado (2 fincas), Baygon® (1 finca) y Vanodine® (1 finca). Se concluye que las fincas ganaderas seleccionadas compartieron factores de riesgo, según el sistema de producción ganadera. Se requiere intervención para evitar perjuicios en animales y consumidores por la utilización de productos no apropiados.

A Cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out in countryside of Puerto Boyacá town for identification of Cochliomyia hominivorax myiasis risk factors on cattle. Fourty four cattle farms were selected with a not-random sampling. Personal interviews were carried out to livestock farmers. Land use, livestock production system, and products for treatment of screwworm myiasis were investigated on February 6-15 of 2007. Stuff and instructions were supplied for taking larvae from animal wounds afterwards register survey application. Those materials were collect since last week on April of 2007 until first week on May of 2007. Frequency analysis, cross-tabs measures and non parametric tests were used. 49 screwworm myiasis cases (0.4 percent) out of 12,325 registered cattle were found, in 18 (41 percent) out of 44 selected cattle farms. The main cause of wounds recorded was injury by barbed wire with 16 cases (32.7 percent). Body sites more frequently infested were navel and scrotum with 9 cases (18.4 percent) each one. Association between age group in cattle and screwworm myiasis cases was founded (P=0.000; α=0.05). Association between cattle production system and screwworm myiasis cases was founded (P=0.044; α=0.05). Usual handling of non appropriate products for screwworm myiasis treatment like “creolina” (31 farms), gasoline (4 farms), used motor lubricant oil (2 farms), Baygon® (1 farm) and Vanodine® (1 farm) was registered. It may be concluded that selected cattle farms shared risk factors, depending on cattle production system. It demands epidemiological intervention to avoid damages to animals and consumers for using of inappropriate products for treatment of traumatic myiasis.

Raro caso de miíases por Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera:Calliphoridae) e Dermatobia hominis (Diptera: Oestridae) em paciente humano / A rare case of myiases by Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae)and Dermatobia hominis (Diptera: Oestridae) in a human patient

Miíase é uma doença causada por larvas de dípteros que se alimentam de tecidos vivo ou necrosado de hospedeiros. Paciente ingresso em hospital público, em péssimo estado clínico geral, exibia três lesões na cabeça com miíases, das quais foram retiradas 518 larvas de C. hominivorax e duas de D. hominis. Após aretirada de larvas, o paciente foi submetido a enxerto de pele.

Myiasis is a disease caused by an infection due to invasion of tissues or cavities of the body by larvae of dipterans insects that feed on live or necrotic tissue of the hosts. A patient was admitted to a public hospital, with a very bad general clinic state, presenting three lesions in the head, from which 518 larvae of C. hominivorax and two larvae of D. hominis were removed. After the removal of the larvae, the patient was submitted to a skin graft.

Problemática del gusano barrenador del ganado, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858) en Colombia / The problem of screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858), in Colombia

Cochliomyia hominivorax es una mosca que en su etapa de larva es parásito obligado de animales de sangre caliente, incluyendo a humanos, causando una condición clínica conocida como ‘miasis traumática’. Dado que la hembra se aparea una sola vez y el macho lo puede hacer varias veces más, en los años 1950 se estableció la erradicación de esta plaga, a partir de esterilización de los machos. El programa de erradicación de C. hominivorax ha sido exitoso en Norte y Centroamérica. Sin embargo, América del Sur aún se encuentra naturalmente infestada. El costo económico, el largo plazo que exige y las consecuencias indeseables del programa de erradicación, propenden por la búsqueda de alternativas de control efectivas. El inicio de la erradicación en Colombia, podría encontrar dificultades geográficas, políticas y, principalmente, económicas. Es fundamental en este proceso la cooperación del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos de América, de las organizaciones de cooperación internacional, de las autoridades sanitarias, de las instituciones educativas, y de los productores de ganado. Las áreas de investigación prioritarias en C. hominivorax en Colombia deberán ser la biología, la epidemiología y la dinámica de poblaciones, a la par con el mejoramiento de los métodos de vigilancia y técnicas de monitoreo. Antes de emprender un programa de erradicación en Colombia, se recomienda la realización de estudios previos para establecer la viabilidad técnica, política, económica y ambiental. Con esta información, una comisión conformada por entes públicos y privados, determinará los verdaderos beneficios y costos de la erradicación.

Nim (Azadirachta indica): uma alternativa no controle de moscas na pecuária / Neem (Azadirachta indica): an alternative for controlling flies associated with animal breeding

As moscas Lucilia cuprina, Chrysomya megacephala, Cochliomyia hominivorax e Musca domestica, estão entre as mais importantes pragas da pecuária causando miíases e como portadoras de microrganismos patogênicos. O propósito deste estudo foi testar a eficácia de várias concentrações do óleo de nim sobre pupas das moscas mencionadas em condições de laboratório e de campo. A redução da emergência das moscas das pupas tratadas com 0,6 por cento de óleo de nim foi de 95,6 por cento em condições de laboratório e 94,5 por cento quando aplicado ao solo onde descansam os animais durante a noite. A aplicação do óleo de nim a 0,6 por cento no solo é uma alternativa viável para controle das pupas de L. cuprina, C. megacephala, C. hominivorax e M. domestica.

Flies Lucilia cuprina, Chrysomya megacephala, Cochliomyia hominivorax and Musca domestica, are among the most important arthropod pests of livestock, which produce myiasis and carry pathogenic microorganisms. The purpose of this study was to test of efficacy of various concentrations of neem oil on pupae of the above mentioned flies under laboratory and in field conditions. Reduction of fly emergence from treated pupae with 0.6 per cent of neem oil was 95.6 per cent under laboratory conditions and 94.5 per cent when applied on the soil, where the cattle rest during the night. The application of neem oil at 0.6 per cent on the soil is a viable alternative for controlling pupae of L. cuprina, C. megacephala, C. hominivorax and M. domestica.

Miasis humana en Bahía Blanca, Argentina: periodo 2000 / 2005 / Human myiasis in Bahía Blanca, Argentina: period 2000 / 2005

Se entiende por miasis a la infestación de vertebrados vivos por larvas de dípteros, que por lo menos durante un corto período, se alimentan de los tejidos vivos o muertos del hospedador, de sus sustancias corporales líquidas o del alimento por él ingerido. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar las especies bioagentes de miasis humanas ocurridas en la ciudad de Bahía Blanca, Argentina, durante el período comprendido entre el 01/03/2000 y el 31/05/2005. Se estudiaron 17 casos clínicos. Las larvas extraídas de las lesiones fueron remitidas de laboratorios y hospitales públicos y privados de dicha ciudad. Parte de las larvas se fijó en alcohol 70° y se procesó según la técnica de Mazza & Jõrg (1939). El resto se crió en condiciones de laboratorio hasta la obtención de los adultos. Se observaron las características diagnósticas de las larvas III y de los ejemplares adultos y se clasificaron taxonómicamente. Las especies bioagentes fueron: Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) en trece de los casos y Phaenicia sericata (= Lucila sericata) (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) en los cuatro restantes. Las miasis fueron traumáticas y aurales, se presentaron durante los meses de Diciembre a Marzo, en la franja etaria de 4 a 86 años, siendo el 76,5 por ciento de los casos de presentación en pacientes masculinos. Teniendo en cuenta la voracidad de las larvas, principalmente las de C. hominivorax, resulta claro que el diagnóstico rápido de miasis y la aplicación del tratamiento adecuado son decisivos para que esta parasitosis se resuelva sin consecuencias graves para el paciente.

Myiasis is the infestation of live human and vertebrate animals with dipterous larvae which, at least for a short period, feed on the host's dead or living tissue, liquid body-substance, or ingested food. The objective of this study was to identify the flies producing myiasis in Bahía Blanca city, Argentina, from 01/03/2000 to 31/05/2005. Seventeen clinical cases were studied. The larvae obtained from lesions were forwarded from laboratories and from public and private hospitals. Part of the larvae were fixed in alcohol 70° and processed according to the Mazza & Jõrg technique (1939). The other part continued growing in flasks with meat in laboratory conditions to obtain the adults. The etiological agents of myiasis were identified by observing the diagnostic characteristics of the larvae III and of the adults, and by using taxonomic keys. Myiasis was produced by Cochlyiomia hominivorax (Coquerel) in thirteen of the cases and by Phaenicia sericata (= Lucila sericata) (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the other four. The cases were traumatic and aural myiasis and happened from December to March. The ages of patients were four to eighty-six years and 76.5 percent of the cases occurred in male patients. Given the aggressiveness of these larvae, mainly C. hominivorax, in causing human myiasis, the importance of specific and quick diagnosis and of adequate treatment must be acknowledged.