When Adam Spencer's girlfriend accepted his marriage proposal as they travelled through South America, the couple could begin thinking of a happy life together.

But their dream trip soon turned into a nightmare when a scab began developing on the 23-year-old's face.

The disfiguring, pus-filled wound soon spread over his cheek and rather than looking forward to the future, Mr Spencer was left fearing for his life as he learned he was being devoured by a flesh-eating parasite - which could potentially kill him.