Myiasis in a spinal cord injury patient with indwelling catheter: A case report from Gondar, Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction and Importance

Myiasis is an overlooked public health issue, with urogenital myiasis (UGM) being particularly rare, as evidenced by only 59 reported cases worldwide from 1975 to 2017. There is a notable scarcity of cases involving patients with prolonged catheter use related to SCI. The interaction of SCI with the complications associated with indwelling urinary devices is less frequently discussed in prior literature. Up to our best, it is the first case to be reported.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 40-year-old male with a spinal cord injury who developed UGM. He presented with multiple white maggots visible at the urethral meatus. He was on a long-term catheter due to urinary retention. There were moving maggots, which were manually removed.

Clinical discussion

This case underscores the risk of UGM in patients with urinary catheters, especially in underdeveloped areas where healthcare access may be restricted.

Conclusion

There is a critical need for education on UGM for at-risk groups, particularly those with indwelling urogenital devices, to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment and reduce the risk of complications.