Berne is the popular name for a parasitic skin disease known as myiasis. It is more common in rural areas, as well as in hot and humid environments. According to Isis Veronez Minami, dermatologist at Hospital Edmundo Vasconcelos, the disease is caused by fly larvae (usually blowflies), most commonly of the species Dermatobium hominis .

Forms of myiasis transmission

According to Brazilian Society of Dematology The most common way of contamination is when flies deposit their larvae in skin lesions, and the most vulnerable areas are the most exposed ones: nose, ears, eyes, scalp, and soles of the feet (especially the heels).

When the beetle is installed in the calcaneal region, it receives the name "passion fruit heel", due to the aspect of the skin, which resembles the appearance of the fruit pulp. In this place, the skin gets an open wound that excretes pus frequently, until it receives the proper treatment. Besides attacking injuries, the berne can be acquired through the consumption of water and food contaminated with the larva.

Types of Berne

The blow fly is not the main responsible for myiasis. It is possible to acquire the disease by coming in contact with the geographic worm, whose habitat is contaminated sand, either from natural or artificial beaches. In fact, this type of myiasis has been very recurrent with the popularization and increase of beach tennis spaces. Finally, there is necrotizing myiasis, which occurs when the host isan animal or human corpse.

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What are the symptoms of berne?

According to the dermatologist, people with berne have a red nodule, which causes local pain and purulent or bloody discharge, similar to a boil. The larvae can develop for a period of 30 to 60 days - during this phase, the patient may experience stinging, stinging or a feeling of movement in the lesion. In addition, the wounds are often itchy and have a bad smell, especiallyby releasing pus.

How to diagnose?

The diagnosis is confirmed with the extraction of the larvae, which are usually whitish or grayish, with discrete black bands. After all, the clinical lesion can be confused with common boils and abscesses.

Myiasis Risk Factors

People of all ages and with skin lesions can be the target of larvae infestation. However, the population that works in rural areas is more vulnerable, because the feet are more exposed to injuries. Living on the street or in places with poor hygiene or basic sanitation also aggravates the picture, as well as diabetes and other diseases that compromise immunity.

Berne Treatment

The most common practice is to cover the hole with adhesive tape and wait for the larva to die before removing it. In the vast majority of cases, a light compression around the wound is enough. Sometimes it is necessary to open the hole surgically, performed by a dermatologist or general surgeon. It is also common to have secondary infections at the site by manipulation.and sometimes it is necessary to use associated antibiotics", explains Isis.

What happens if myiasis is not treated?

Like any untreated injury, the berne injury can become a gateway for other bacteria. As a consequence, the person can suffer an even more serious infection, such as sepsis. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical help for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

How to prevent it?

Prevention depends on combating flies, so it is important:

• Use clothes that cover a good part of the body and repellents.
• Apply window screens and mosquito nets.
• Iron the clothes after removing them from the clothesline.
• Keep garbage bags tightly closed to avoid flies around.
• Seek a dermatologist as soon as you notice any skin lesions.
• Take care of skin hygiene and possible injuries.

Source: Isis Veronez Minami, dermatologist at Hospital Edmundo Vasconcelos .