Epidemiological Insights Into Human Myiasis in Iran: A Comprehensive Systematic Review Publisher



M Akbari MORTEZA ; S Sheikhi SORAYA ; K Akbarzadeh KAMRAN ; M Hosseinyrad MANIJEH ; Mr Akbari Mohammad REZA ; A Jalali Galusang ASADOLLAH ; Ah Jalilian Ali HOSSEIN ; R Pakzad REZA ; Aa Aivazi Ali ASHRAF
Source: Psyche: Journal of Entomology Published:2025

Abstract

Introduction: Myiasis is a condition characterized by the infestation of tissues and organs in humans and other vertebrates with the larvae of certain fly species. It poses a significant medical and public health concern for humans and is also an economic burden for a wide range of domestic and wild animals in tropical and subtropical regions. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of the epidemiology of myiasis in Iran. Methods: Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a thorough search of international and local databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, ProQuest, SDI, Magiran, Barakat Knowledge Network System, and the Islamic World Science Citation Database (ISC) was conducted from the inception of the databases to November 21, 2021. Keywords related to myiasis, including myiases, maggot infestations, infestation of maggot, and prevalence, were used in the search. Results: The most prevalent types of myiasis in Iran were Oestrus ovis (29.63%), Chrysomya bezziana (18.52%), and Lucilia sericata (16.67%). Eristalis tenax was the most common causal agent in accidental myiasis (42.86% (9.9–81.59)), Lucilia sericata in facultative myiasis (64.71% (38.33–85.79)), and Oestrus ovis in obligatory myiasis (51.52% (33.54–69.2)). Nasopharyngeal myiasis, dermal myiasis, urogenital myiasis, and intestinal myiasis were the most frequent types of myiasis, with prevalence rates ranging from 1.9% (45.64–76.43) to 57.14% (18.41–90.1), 50% (15.7–84.3), and 60% (14.66–94.73). Common symptoms included pain and inflammation. Conclusion: The results of this systematic review indicate a higher prevalence of myiasis infestation in Iran and will help raise awareness and draw the attention of health staff to the importance as well as some of the symptoms and predisposing factors of myiasis that could serve as a reference to prevent and control myiasis in humans and animals in Iran and even worldwide. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.