Sunday, May 2, 2010

Answer to Case 115

Answer: Fly larvae; myiasis.

Although the images don't provide enough detail to make a definitive identification to the genus and species level, it is clear that these are insect larvae. The fact that they were found associated with necrotic human tissue suggests that they are facultative human parasites, and thus the term myiasis (dipterous fly larvae feeding on the host's necrotic or living tissue) applies. Of interest, "myia" is Greek for fly.

Thanks for all of the comments!

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