Orbital myiasis A case report and literature review

Rationale: Myiasis is a parasitic disease caused by fly larvae of the Diptera order that infest human and other vertebrate animal tissues. Orbital myiasis is a potentially destructive infestation of the orbital tissues, which may affect individuals with previous ocular diseases or disorders of consciousness. Patient concerns: A 72-year-old man presented with a complaint of repeated pain for two years after trauma to his right eyelid and aggravated symptoms with larvae wriggling out for 2 days. An orbital computed tomography scan revealed right eyeball protrusion and periocular soft tissue edema. Two days later, magnetic resonance imaging showed that the shape of the right eyeball was changed and that the normal structure of the eyeball could not be identified. Diagnoses: Due to the patient's symptoms and imaging examination results, the diagnosis of orbital myiasis was made. Interventions: The patient was treated by exenteration of the right orbit, and all necrotic tissues and larvae were removed. The defect was repaired via reconstruction with a pedicled musculocutaneous flap from the forehead region. Antibiotics and tetanus toxoid therapy were utilized to prevent potential bacterial infection. Outcomes: The patient recovered well postoperatively and was discharged uneventfully. During the 6-month follow-up period, the wound healed well. Lessons: Advanced age and untreated eye trauma are risk factors for orbital myiasis. Timely removal of larvae and elimination of infections are important measures for protecting the eyeball.