A mammary myiasis caused by Psychoda albipennis (Diptera: Psychodidae) in a dairy cow: first record.

Abstract

Myiasis is one of the most prevalent ectoparasitic infestation worldwide. In this study, we present a rare case of mammary myiasis caused by the larvae of the Psychoda albipennis species. The larvae emerging from the cows' udder were cleared with lactophenol and 30% KOH. Morphological characteristics and literature reviews indicated that the larvae belonged to the species P. albipennis. As a result of mechanical damage caused by the larvae and the use of medications leading to the atrophy of the udder, the cow was sent for slaughter. Myiasis cases occurring in animals housed under inadequate hygiene conditions have been observed to cause economic losses and even lead to death.