Few medical images are as startling as a close-up view of the eyelid with an unusual larva-like structure being carefully removed with sterile instruments. What initially looks like a small swelling or irritated spot can sometimes turn out to be something far more unusual.

The image shown here appears to depict a larva-like organism being removed from inflamed tissue near the eye. While this type of presentation can occur with certain forms of myiasis, the exact diagnosis cannot be confirmed from a photograph alone.

What Is Myiasis?

Myiasis is a condition in which fly larvae infest human tissue or body cavities. Depending on where the larvae are located, the condition can involve the skin, an open wound, or areas around natural body openings.

When the eye or surrounding tissues are involved, it can become particularly concerning because the structures around the eye are delicate and require careful examination.

Not every unusual object seen near an eye is a parasite, however. A professional examination is necessary to determine exactly what is present.