New possibilities and perspectives for the use of fly maggots in clinical practice

Abstract

Maggot therapy is a method for treating chronic, non-healing wounds using live fly larvae that consume necrotic tissue, thereby cleaning the wound. The species most commonly used is Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826). Although clinically applied, the method raises concerns among patients and medical staff. Current research highlights the therapeutic potential of chemical compounds in larval excretions/secretions (ES), particularly against the growing issue of antibiotic resistance, as a complement to standard antibiotic therapy. Most studies focus on ES from L. sericata, while other fly species have been less explored. Investigated groups include Calliphoridae, Muscidae, and Sarcophagidae. Studies suggest ES may have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer properties. This work focuses on the less-studied species and the properties of their ES.