Could my rash be due to worms instead of eczema?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have visited the dermatologist once and my doctor's office once, where there was a dermatologist available. I developed a rash on my skin that I had never seen before, which eventually led to open wounds. At first, I thought I might have some kind of bug infestation. Both medical professionals told me it was eczema, which is a possibility. However, after doing some further research online, I discovered that certain types of flies can burrow into your skin through open wounds or other means.

I began to investigate flies because I noticed small black dots on my wounds and observed tiny black flies in my house, especially near my sink and other areas. This is the second time that an area above my eye has become inflamed, and when I attempted to squeeze it, it appeared as though tiny worms were emerging. I am truly unsure about what to do, and I am feeling scared and in need of help. I do recall having eczema when I was a baby, but this seems quite different in appearance.

The dermatologist prescribed medication, which included a steroid, but it did not resolve the issue. The condition tends to worsen at times, particularly when I suspect there might be larvae inside me. I am currently taking birth control pills, Adderall, and occasionally Klonopin for medication.

Please help.

Thank you.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern.

Do not worry, let us look into your symptoms one by one. You mentioned a skin rash that has led to open wounds, but you have not mentioned the duration of the symptoms. You suspect this might be due to flies. Myiasis is the infestation by maggots (larvae) of houseflies, which feed on dead tissues. It is a rare condition usually seen in patients who have poor immunity (such as HIV or diabetic patients), old age, poor hygiene, or those who are unable to take care of themselves.

The chances of myiasis in healthy individuals with good immunity, who take proper care and maintain hygiene, are very low. You also complained of swelling in your eyelid, and after squeezing it, worm-like things came out. I believe the swelling might be a stye or an infected chalazion (a bacterial infection of a gland in the eyelid) that releases cheese-like material, which is actually a secretion from a gland that has built up inside. It will go away with warm compresses applied to your eyelid. Please send me a picture of your skin problems; it would help me further in making a specific diagnosis.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.