External Ophthalmomyiasis due to Dermatobia Hominis

A child presented with right eye swelling for five days refractory to systemic antibiotics. On examination, he had significant periorbital edema, erythema, injection, a chemosis. At the lateral canthus, a small scab with skin defect was visualized. Computerized tomography of the orbits revealed an area of inflammation with air tracking back along the lateral rectus with no evidence of significant sinus disease. The family opted for surgical exploration, and two tunneled tracks were found along the lateral rim of the orbit. No abscess or significant purulence was identified. The patient has significant, rapid improvement post-operatively with a course of high-dose steroids. He was diagnosed with presumed external ophthalmomyiasis secondary to likely Dermatobia hominis infestation.

Presentation Date: 12/02/2021

Issue Date: 12/17/2021