Myiasis Epidemiology - - -

a service of the

Maggot Therapy Project

When maggots infest humans or other vertebrates, it is called myiasis. Naturally occuring myiasis can be benefitial, but sometimes it can be harmful, depending upon the type of maggot and the circumstances surrounding the infestation.

Here, maggots can be seen infesting a gangrenous wound on the heel. Some of the black, dead ("necrotic") tissue still remains. Notice the healthy red tissue where the maggots have been eating.

Our Page is still undergoing metamorphosis. In the future, we will expand this page, and we will link you to other entomology and health care web sites. To share comments, to request additional information or to obtain supplies, contact us at:

Ronald A. Sherman, MD, MSc, DTM&H
Depts. of Medicine and Pathology
Room D-440, Medical Sciences Building; ZOT Code 4800
University of California
Irvine, CA 92797-4800
Phone: (714) 824-5829
FAX: (714) 824-1098
e-mail: RSherman@uci.edu

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