Myiasis in a the Tracheotomy Wound: A Case Report

Manilal Aich Litu,Md Asadur Rahman,Md Rafiul Alam,Md Shaikhul Islam,Md Siddiqur Rahman,Sharfuddin Mahmud

doi:10.3329/bjo.v22i2.45102

Abstract

“Myiasis” is a parasitic infestation of live human or vertebrate animal tissues or cavities caused by dipterous larvae (maggots) which feed on the host’s dead or living tissue, liquid body substances or ingested food. The case is reported, probably the first in Bangladesh, tracheostomy myiasis. It was caused by infestation with larvae. The patient had undergone tracheostomy 3 years earlier and was a case of ca-larynx. The condition was treated by applying halothane to the tracheostomy wound, which caused spontaneous exit of approximately 30 larvae, easily removed with forceps. Predisposing factors could be: 1. Immuno-compromization due to post-irradiation state of patient; 2. Poor hygiene of tracheostomy tube; 3. Bad smell of wound, which attracts flies; 4. Living in a rural area deprived from necessary health care. Although this is not a lethal disorder, knowledge of the disease is necessary from the preventive, diagnostic and curative standpoint. It is important to proceed with identification of the larvae, distinguishing them from other types of myiasis involving different therapeutic implications. Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol; October 2016; 22(2): 119-121

Highlights

CASE REPORTThe case is reported, probably the first in Bangladesh, tracheostomy myiasis
Myiasis is derived from the Greek word, myia, meaning fly
We report an unusual case of late tracheostomy bleed caused due to infestation of maggots around the tracheostoma with a review of relevant literature

Summary

CASE REPORT

The case is reported, probably the first in Bangladesh, tracheostomy myiasis. It was caused by infestation with larvae. The patient had undergone tracheostomy 3 years earlier and was a case of ca-larynx. The condition was treated by applying halothane to the tracheostomy wound, which caused spontaneous exit of approximately 30 larvae, removed with forceps. Living in a rural area deprived from necessary health care. This is not a lethal disorder, knowledge of the disease is necessary from the preventive, diagnostic and curative standpoint. It is important to proceed with identification of the larvae, distinguishing them from other types of myiasis involving different therapeutic implications.

Introduction

Discussion

Conclusion