Severe Vaginal Myiasis: Successful Management With Ivermectin

Int J Infect Dis. 2022 Sep:122:398-400. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.06.021. Epub 2022 Jun 17.

Abstract

Myiasis refers to infestation of living animals or humans by maggots or fly larvae. Urogenital myiasis is a rare condition that is linked to poor sanitary conditions and limited access to healthcare and with few published case reports. Here, we describe the case of a 67-year-old homeless woman with multiple comorbidities, who presented with extensive vaginal myiasis requiring inpatient management with ivermectin, ceftriaxone, and metronidazole and daily larvae extraction and debridement. The relevance of this case is providing a report of a successful management with ivermectin of a case of severe vaginal myiasis. Severe cases of vaginal myiasis can require repeated debridement of necrotic tissue and systemic antibiotics in addition to antiparasitic medication. People living under poor sanitary conditions and with poor hygienic practices are at increased risk for severe vaginal myiasis.

Keywords: Gynecology; Ivermectin; Mental Disorders; Myiasis; Poverty.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Antiparasitic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ivermectin* / therapeutic use
  • Larva
  • Myiasis* / diagnosis
  • Myiasis* / drug therapy
  • Myiasis* / parasitology
  • Vagina

Substances

  • Antiparasitic Agents
  • Ivermectin