Abstract :
Purpose: Ophthalmomyiasis is a zoonotic infestation of ocular or orbital tissue by fly larvae. Patients present with varied manifestation from mild symptoms to extensive involvement of ocular structures. Here we report three cases of ophthalmomyiasis, aiming for better understanding of clinical features and management of this condition.Material and Methods: It is a retrospective case series where patients with ocular or orbital myiasis over past 2 years were included. After obtaining ethical committee clearance, detailed history on patient’s demography like age, gender, occupation, associated systemic conditions and previous eye problems was noted. Patient’s symptoms were documented and ophthalmic evaluation details were recorded which included best corrected visual acuity, anterior and posterior segment slit lamp findings. Data was also collected on medical and surgical management of the cases.Results: We describe three cases of ocular myiasis. Two were females and one was a male patient. The age of the patients ranged between 20 to 90 years. Two cases lived in rural area and were involved in both agricultural activity and livestock rearing. Unilateral presentation was observed in all the three cases. Two patients were found to have external ophthalmomyiasis who underwent larval removal and subsequently received medical management. In the third case of orbital myiasis further investigation through biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma. Due to delayed presentation and despite rigorous medical management, patient required exenteration.Conclusion: Ophthalmomyiasis is a relatively uncommon condition that mimics conjunctivitis. Prompt intervention through proper history taking and meticulous examination, is essential to manage external ophthalmomyiasis effectively, thereby preventing its progression to internal and orbital myiasis.
Keyword :
Maggots, sheep botfly, External ophthalmomyiasis, Internal ophthalmomyiasis, Orbital myiasis.