Myiasis
Myiasis
Myiasis (pronounced: my-AY-uh-sis) is a medical condition that involves an infestation of fly larvae, commonly known as maggots, in the tissue of living animals or humans.
Etymology
The term "myiasis" is derived from the Greek word "myia", which means fly, and "iasis", which refers to a pathological condition or disease.
Definition
Myiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the larvae of several species of flies. The flies lay their eggs on the skin or in the wounds of animals or humans, and the hatched larvae feed on the host's living or dead tissue, body substances, or ingested food.
Types of Myiasis
There are several types of myiasis, which are classified based on the body part affected and the relationship between the host and the fly larvae. These include:
- Cutaneous Myiasis: This is the most common type of myiasis, where the larvae infest the skin.
- Nasopharyngeal Myiasis: In this type, the larvae infest the nose, throat, or sinuses.
- Ocular Myiasis: This is a rare type of myiasis where the larvae infest the eyes.
- Gastrointestinal Myiasis: This type occurs when the larvae are ingested and infest the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms
Symptoms of myiasis depend on the type and location of the infestation. They may include itching, a sensation of movement, pain, and changes in skin color. In severe cases, myiasis can lead to tissue damage, secondary bacterial infection, and other complications.
Treatment
Treatment for myiasis involves removing the larvae from the body, usually through minor surgery, and treating any secondary infections with antibiotics. In some cases, Ivermectin, a medication used to treat various types of parasitic infestations, may be used.
Prevention
Prevention of myiasis involves maintaining good personal hygiene, using insect repellent, and avoiding areas where flies are prevalent.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Myiasis
- Wikipedia's article - Myiasis
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