OBSOLETE: Hypodermyiasis

Hypodermyiasis (also called hypodermosis or warble fly infestation) is a parasitic condition caused by the larvae of botflies, most commonly from the genus Hypoderma. These flies lay their eggs on the skin or hair of a host — usually cattle or other large animals — but humans can occasionally become accidental hosts. When this happens in people, it is sometimes called human hypodermyiasis or accidental myiasis. After the eggs hatch, the tiny larvae burrow under the skin and migrate through the body's tissues, causing painful swelling, skin lumps, and a creeping sensation under the skin. In humans, the larvae typically cause a moving, swollen lump under the skin that may feel like something is crawling beneath the surface. The condition can also affect deeper tissues, including muscles and, in rare cases, the eye or nervous system, which can be more serious. Symptoms include itching, pain, and visible skin lesions. Note: This condition is marked as 'obsolete' in the Orphanet rare disease database, meaning it may have been reclassified, merged with a broader category of myiasis, or removed from active rare disease tracking. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the larvae or antiparasitic medications. Most cases in humans resolve fully with prompt treatment.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.How do you confirm that this is hypodermyiasis and not another skin condition?,What is the safest way to remove the larva in my case — surgery or medication?,Are there any signs I should watch for that would mean the larva has moved deeper into my body?,How long will it take to recover after treatment, and will there be any lasting effects?,Do I need any follow-up tests or imaging to make sure all larvae have been removed?,Is there any risk to people I live with, or is this condition not contagious between people?,What can I do to prevent this from happening again if I continue to work with or around cattle?

Common questions about OBSOLETE: Hypodermyiasis