Ophthalmomyiasis externa by Oestrus ovis in a farmer: A rare case report from rural eastern India

ABSTRACT: The infestation of ocular tissue by dipterous fly larvae is known as ophthalmomyiasis. External ophthalmomyiasis primarily affects the conjunctiva and adnexa and is the most frequent manifestation in humans. Oestrus ovis (sheep nasal botfly) is the commonest causative agent. We describe a case of a 42-year-old farmer presenting with the abrupt onset of a foreign body sensation, redness, and watering in the left eye. Slit-lamp examination revealed conjunctival congestion and multiple translucent motile larvae in the fornices exhibiting photophobic and burrowing behavior. Five larvae were mechanically removed under topical anesthesia. Microbiological analysis confirmed it as stage 1 larvae of O. ovis . Complete resolution of symptoms occurred within four days after treatment with topical moxifloxacin and dexamethasone. This case underscores the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion in endemic rural areas and highlights that prompt diagnosis, combined with mechanical removal, ensures a rapid recovery and prevents complications.