Mouth larva, also known as oral myiasis, is a rare health condition that is caused by larvae of a certain type of dipteran flies. The cases of this rare disease are often reported in the developing or underdeveloped countries and those countries that are located in the tropics. This highlights the importance of being aware of uncommon health conditions.
The dipterous larvae feed on either the dead or living tissues of the host. They also feed on the host’s liquid body substances and the ingested food.
Mouth larva in most cases will develop after a dental extraction, nosocomial infection, in some drug addicts, after a visit to the tropical countries and any other condition that is associated with having the mouth open for long periods of time.
When the mouth is open, the food debris that is fermenting inside it or the bad odor attracts dipteran flies. The flies get into the mouth and lay eggs there that later develop into larvae. It also emphasizes the role of hygiene and preventive care in health.
Now, enough of the introduction. Let’s come to our topic on how to treat mouth lice properly.
1. Occlusion or Suffocation
Occlusion or suffocation involves placing petroleum jelly, beeswax, bacon strips or liquid paraffin on the area that has the mouth larva growing on it.
Due to lack of enough oxygen, the larvae will be forced to come out of its hiding place. This usually occurs over a period of several hours and it can be as little as 3 hours or even up to 24 hours.
The larvae emerge out their head first and are captured using forceps or tweezers.
2. Surgical Removal
In this case, the area with the skin lesion is anesthetized locally. The aesthetic used is usually lidocaine. Afterwards, the larvae is surgically excised and the resulting wound is then closed.
There are times when the lidocaine is injected into the base of the lesion. This is done in order to create fluid pressure into the lesion. The pressure forces the larvae to come out of the punctum.
Another surgical approach involves performing a 4mm to 5mm punch excision on the punctum and also it’s surrounding skin. This is done to begin proper access to the larvae and make it more visible.
Once the mouth larva is visible, it can then be removed by the use of forceps. The extraction of the larvae is a complex one. The larvae has a tapered shape and it has hooks and spines on it. That is why it can only be removed through the central punctum.
3. Topical Ivermectin
This is used in the treatment of all types of myiasis and can effectively treat mouth larvae. An oral ivermectin or a topical ivermectin is used in this case.
4. Wound Myiasis
Wound myiasis involves debridement accompanied by irrigation to get rid of the larvae from the wound.
There are various approaches to it. It can include chloroform, which is mixed with a bit of vegetable oil or ether for the removal of the larvae by the help of a local anesthesia.
The mouth larva comes off within a period of 5 to 7 weeks after a wound myiasis is performed. In this case, surgical removal is not needed.
Key Takeaway…
I am sure after reading the article, you have properly understood how to treat mouth larva effectively. If you think that you can help someone who is suffering from this condition, then share this article. Taking timely action reflects responsible and proactive health management.
It is also highly recommended that as soon as you come to know that you are suffering from mouth larva, then instantly visit your doctor and start the treatment process.
Hope you are now aware on how to treat mouth larva.
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