Cutaneous myiasis: a vacation souvenir

Cutaneous myiasis is a temporary infestation of the skin with fly larvae. T ravelling to subtropical areas accounts for a higher risk and increasing in cidence in Europeans. In Middle- and South America myiasis is mainly caused by the botfly (Dermatobia hominis). Blood-suckling arthropods, usually mos quitoes, transmit the larvae of the botfly via phoresis, a unique mechanism of egg deposition. In Africa cutaneous myiasis is mostly due to the tumbu fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga). Infection with the tumbu fly larvae occurs after direct contact with the eggs that are often deposited in clothes and towels. Clinically an abscess-like lesion develops. Creeping sensations of movement under the skin are occasionally described. Following hatching, spo ntaneous healing can normally be expected, although extraction of the larva e is recommended to prevent abscess formation and superinfection.