Abstract
Background: Ophthalmomyiasis, the parasitic infestation of the eye by fly larvae, is a rare but potentially vision-threatening condition. Its association with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the eyelid is exceedingly uncommon, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This systematic review explores the relationship between ophthalmomyiasis and eyelid BCC, focusing on clinical presentation, diagnostic pitfalls, and management strategies.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using keywords including ophthalmomyiasis eyelid basal cell carcinoma and differential diagnosis. Studies reporting cases of ophthalmomyiasis with concurrent or underlying BCC were included. Data on demographics, clinical features, diagnostic modalities, and treatment outcomes were extracted and analyzed. Results: Our review identified multiple cases of ophthalmomyiasis associated with eyelid BCC.
Common presentations included eyelid ulceration, larva visibility, and periocular inflammation. Misdiagnosis as benign ulcers or infections was frequent, delaying appropriate intervention. Histopathological confirmation was critical in distinguishing BCC from other lesions. Treatment involved larval extraction followed by tumor excision, with favorable outcomes in most cases.
Conclusion: Ophthalmomyiasis in the setting of eyelid BCC is a rare but clinically significant entity requiring a high index of suspicion. Accurate diagnosis hinges on histopathological evaluation and awareness of overlapping features. Early intervention improves prognosis, underscoring the need for systematic evaluation in atypical periocular infestations. This review highlights key diagnostic clues and advocates for multidisciplinary management in such complex cases.