Open Flap Debridement in the Treatment of Periodontal Myiasis: A case report

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.