← Back to guidelines
Allergy & Immunology5 papers

Infestation caused by Cordylobia anthropophaga

Last edited: 4/16/2026

Overview

Cordylobia anthropophaga, commonly known as the Tunga fly, causes cutaneous myiasis, leading to boil-like lesions when larvae infest human skin, typically around the groin and buttocks. 1 does not provide relevant clinical information.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical presentation of painful, enlarging nodules with a central punctum.
  • Presence of a larva within the lesion confirmed by physical examination or imaging.
  • Histopathological examination may reveal characteristic larva structures 1 does not provide relevant diagnostic methods.
  • Management

  • Surgical removal of the larva under local anesthesia is the primary treatment.
  • Supportive care includes analgesics and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections.
  • No specific drug dosing mentioned for larva removal or supportive care 1 does not provide relevant treatment details.
  • Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Management principles similar to non-pregnant adults, but anesthesia choices should be carefully considered.
  • Pediatrics: Surgical removal techniques may need to be adapted for smaller patients; supportive care remains crucial.
  • Elderly: Increased risk of complications; careful anesthesia and postoperative monitoring are essential.
  • Comorbidities: Patients with compromised immune systems or skin conditions may require closer monitoring for secondary infections 1 does not provide specific guidance for these populations.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Perform surgical excision of the embedded larva under local anesthesia for definitive treatment (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Provide symptomatic relief with analgesics and prophylactic antibiotics to prevent secondary infections (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Tailor anesthesia and postoperative care based on patient-specific factors such as age and comorbidities (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • References

    1 Stemme T, Iliffe TM, von Reumont BM, Koenemann S, Harzsch S, Bicker G. Serotonin-immunoreactive neurons in the ventral nerve cord of Remipedia (Crustacea): support for a sister group relationship of Remipedia and Hexapoda?. BMC evolutionary biology 2013. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Serotonin-immunoreactive neurons in the ventral nerve cord of Remipedia (Crustacea): support for a sister group relationship of Remipedia and Hexapoda?Stemme T, Iliffe TM, von Reumont BM, Koenemann S, Harzsch S, Bicker G BMC evolutionary biology (2013)

    HemoChat

    by SPINAI

    Evidence-based clinical decision support powered by SNOMED-CT, Neo4j GraphRAG, and NASS/AO/NICE guidelines.

    ⚕ For clinical reference only. Not a substitute for professional judgment.

    © 2026 HemoChat. All rights reserved.
    Research·Pricing·Privacy & Terms·Refund·SNOMED-CT · NASS · AO Spine · NICE · GraphRAG