A Rare Case of Larval Tick Infestation at the Conjunctiva

Authors

  • Winai Chaidaroon Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University
  • Laddawan Methakittrakul Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University
  • Phit Upaphong Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University

Keywords:

Amblyomma americanum, conjunctiva, lone star, parasite, tick

Abstract

This is a case report of a middle-aged man without underlying disease presented with acute pain in his left eye. Ocular examination showed an insect-like foreign body attached on his left lower palpebral conjunctiva. The foreign body was removed gently by non-toothed forceps and a cotton tip applicator. It was further identified as the larval form of Amblyomma americanum tick. A topical combination steroid-antibiotic medication was prescribed. It was further identified as the larval form of Amblyomma americanum tick. In summary,   a thorough eye examination is necessary for the early recognition of this rare condition.

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Published

2022-08-23

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Section

Case Report