Palpebral myiasis in a Danish traveler caused by the human bot-fly (Dermatobia hominis).

PURPOSE: To demonstrate a case of palpebral myiasis caused by Dermatobia hominis in a Dane traveling in the Brazilian rain forest.

METHODS

Surgical removal and histological examination.

RESULTS

Within three weeks after returning from the Brazilian rain forest, the patient developed a localized swelling of the left upper eyelid and follicular conjunctivitis. A funnel containing a larva was found between the cilia. The larva was excised together with surrounding inflammatory tissue. The clinical findings as well as zoological and pathological examinations indicated a case of palpebral myiasis caused by Dermatobia hominis. The larva was removed in its third stage four weeks from symptom debut.

CONCLUSIONS

Infestation with Dermatobia hominis should be suspected when itching and red swelling of the lid are present in patients who have been to Central and South America.