Hydraulic Expulsion of Tumbu Fly Larvae

Cutaneous furuncular myiasis results from skin invasion by fly larvae of the order Diptera, including the tumbu fly, C anthropophaga. Though tumbu fly myiasis is thought to be self-resolving, removal of the larva is indicated to prevent pain or secondary infection. As the tumbu fly lacks the recurved spines typical of other myiasis-causing species, removal usually involves application of pressure to both sides of the lesion and removal using forceps or a needle. This video illustrates a technique to expel the larvae with a syringe and saline using hydraulic pressure alone. For full details, see http://ja.ma/19mSAiR. Cite this as JAMA Dermatol. Published online March 19, 2014. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2013.9571.