Ophthalmomyiasis Due to Oestrus Ovis – A Study from South India.

Abstract

Myiasis is the intrusion of dipterian fly hatchlings in humans or other vertebrates. The association of any anatomical site of the eye is called Ophthalmomyiasis. Since information on outside ophthalmomyiasis is rare in South India, the present study is carried out to explore the epidemiology, risk factors and clinical highlights Patients with ophthalmomyiasis were prospectively identified over four years. Slit-lamp microscopy was used to examine the conjunctiva. Larvae collected from conjunctiva were subjected to the lactophenol cotton blue staining technique. Two conjunctival swabs were collected from the patients who were diagnosed with ophthalmomyiasis.  Standard microbiological methods were followed. Majority of the patients presented with the symptoms of conjunctivitis and foreign body sensation.. Using smooth forceps helps in preserving morphology instead of using toothed forceps.