Overview
Furuncular myiasis is a skin condition caused by the larvae (maggots) of certain flies burrowing into and living under the skin. The word 'furuncular' refers to the boil-like lumps that form, and 'myiasis' simply means an infestation by fly larvae. It is also sometimes called 'botfly infestation,' 'warble,' or 'subcutaneous myiasis.' The most common flies responsible are the human botfly (Dermatobia hominis), found in Central and South America, and the tumbu fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga), found in sub-Saharan Africa. When a fly larva gets under the skin, it creates a small, painful, boil-like lump that slowly grows over days to weeks. The lump often has a small hole at the top, through which the larva breathes. People frequently feel movement or a crawling sensation under the skin, which can be very distressing. The area around the lump is usually red, swollen, and tender. The good news is that furuncular myiasis is very treatable. The main goal is to safely remove the larva from the skin, either by a doctor using a small procedure or by suffocating the larva so it comes to the surface on its own. Once the larva is fully removed, most people recover completely without lasting problems. Antibiotics may be given if there is a secondary bacterial infection. Prevention involves using insect repellent and protective clothing in areas where these flies are common.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
A painful, boil-like lump under the skinA small hole or opening at the top of the lumpFeeling of movement or crawling sensation under the skinRedness and swelling around the lumpItching at the siteDischarge of fluid or pus from the lumpSlowly growing bump over days to weeksTenderness when touching the affected areaOccasionally, a visible larva at the surface of the skin
Sporadic
Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent
Variable
Can begin at different ages, from infancy through adulthood
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Furuncular myiasis.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Furuncular myiasis.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Furuncular myiasis.
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Caregiver Resources
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Family & Caregiver Grants
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Social Security Disability
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Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.Is it safe to try removing the larva at home, or should this always be done by a doctor?,How do I know if the larva has been fully removed?,What signs of infection should I watch for after the larva is removed?,Do I need antibiotics after the procedure?,How long will it take for the skin to heal completely?,How can I prevent this from happening again if I travel to tropical areas?,Are there any situations where this condition could become more serious?
Common questions about Furuncular myiasis
What is Furuncular myiasis?
Furuncular myiasis is a skin condition caused by the larvae (maggots) of certain flies burrowing into and living under the skin. The word 'furuncular' refers to the boil-like lumps that form, and 'myiasis' simply means an infestation by fly larvae. It is also sometimes called 'botfly infestation,' 'warble,' or 'subcutaneous myiasis.' The most common flies responsible are the human botfly (Dermatobia hominis), found in Central and South America, and the tumbu fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga), found in sub-Saharan Africa. When a fly larva gets under the skin, it creates a small, painful, boil-lik
How is Furuncular myiasis inherited?
Furuncular myiasis follows a sporadic inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.