Dermatobia hominis

Dermatobia hominis is a species of fly that is native to Central and South America. It is commonly known as the human botfly and is notorious for its parasitic larvae, which can infest human skin. The larvae burrow into the skin and develop there, causing a painful condition known as myiasis.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Dermatobia hominis is unique among insects. The adult female botfly captures a mosquito or other blood-sucking insect and lays her eggs on its body. When the mosquito bites a human, the heat of the human's body causes the eggs to hatch, and the larvae enter the skin through the bite wound.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The primary symptom of a Dermatobia hominis infestation is a furuncle-like lesion on the skin, often accompanied by intense pain. The lesion may exude pus and blood, and the patient may feel movement under the skin as the larva grows. Diagnosis is typically made by observing the larva emerging from the lesion.

Treatment

Treatment for Dermatobia hominis infestation involves the removal of the larva from the skin. This can be done by a medical professional using forceps, or by the patient themselves using a method known as "occlusive therapy", which involves covering the lesion with petroleum jelly or bacon fat to suffocate the larva and force it to the surface.

Prevention

Prevention of Dermatobia hominis infestation is difficult, as the botfly uses other insects to transport its eggs. However, using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants can reduce the risk of mosquito bites, which can in turn reduce the risk of botfly infestation.

See Also

• Myiasis
• Parasitic Insects
• Insect Bites and Stings

Dermatobia hominis Resources
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