A dermoscopic study of cutaneous myiasis: other findings.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Myiasis is a cutaneous infestation by the larvae of dipterous flies. It can be furuncular/nodular, papular, or pustular. Diagnosis of cutaneous myiasis depends mainly on clinical examination especially for the nodular form. The latter two forms can present diagnostic difficulties. Dermoscopy has been reported to be helpful. This report illustrates some of the dermoscopic features of this condition. METHODS: The history, clinical findings, and dermoscopic findings of 15 affected individuals were documented. RESULTS: Dermoscopy in all patients showed the posterior end of larvae (creamy-white bodies and respiratory spiracles resembling birds' legs with digitated feet). Larval motility and bubbles were noticed in 15 and 10 of patients, respectively. Skin surrounding the larvae showed hypopigmentation in 11 patients and an increase in dilated capillaries in 13. CONCLUSIONS: Dermoscopy can facilitate the diagnosis of myiasis particularly of the papular and pustular forms.