Abstract

Myiasis is an infestation of live vertebrate by dipterous larva, which feeds on living and dead host tissue, host products and byproducts. Here, we report a case of a female aged 35 years old, mentally retarded presented with severe pain, swelling, crawling worms in the upper teeth and lip region. She was a chronic mouth breather with very poor hygiene. On clinical examination, a larvae was seen in the periodontal pocket with relation to teeth #21 and 22, which was later by entomological examination identified as Chrysomya bezziana. The patient was managed by mechanical removal of the larvae from pocket using turpentine oil and then by open flap debridement with removal of all maggots. This case report emphasizes the importance of oral hygiene instruction, motivation and education in mentally challenged patients. Controlling fly vector population, maintaining good oral and personal hygiene contributes in checking this infestation.

Key words: Myiasis, mouth breather, oral hygiene, Chrysomya bezziana