Pathological Lesions Associated With Cordylobia Anthropophaga Infestations of Dogs in Kitui County, Kenya

This study investigated the effects of Cordylobia anthropophaga, a fly species whose larvae infest living tissues, on dogs in Kitui County, Kenya. Four dogs with confirmed cases of canine cutaneous myiasis (CCM) were examined, euthanized, and their tissues analyzed. The dogs presented with poor body condition, alopecia, emaciation, and characteristic nodular skin lesions with central pores, mainly on the ventral abdomen and extremities. Histopathological analysis revealed parasitic granulomas, congested blood vessels, and eosinophilic lymphadenitis in the skin, skeletal muscles, and regional lymph nodes. The infestations led to symptoms such as unthriftiness, lethargy, and anorexia, which could result in emaciation and potentially death. The study highlights the need to control this parasite to improve the health and wellbeing of dogs in the region.