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Palatal necrosis in an AIDS patient: a case of mucormycosis
1Dermatology Consultation Service, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.
Abstract:
We report a case of rhinocerebral mucormycosis presenting in a patient with AIDS and review the literature on mucormycosis occurring in the setting of HIV disease. Mucormycosis in HIV is rare. However, it can be the presenting opportunistic infection in AIDS. Predisposing factors for Mucor infection in HIV disease include low CD4 count, neutropenia, and active intravenous drug use. Mucormycosis can present in the basal ganglia, the skin, the gastrointestinal tract, the respiratory tract, or may be disseminated. The disease may develop insidiously or may progress rapidly with a fulminant course. Therapy usually consists of surgical debridement/excision accompanied by intravenous amphotericin B.
Insights
Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This opportunistic infection can present insidiously or rapidly, requiring surgical intervention and antifungal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Mucormycosis is a rare but serious fungal infection.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) compromise the immune system, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A case of rhinocerebral mucormycosis is presented in a patient with AIDS.
- The literature on mucormycosis in the context of HIV disease is reviewed.
- Predisposing factors in HIV-infected individuals include low CD4 counts, neutropenia, and intravenous drug use.
Findings:
- Mucormycosis can be the initial opportunistic infection in AIDS patients.
- Presentation sites include basal ganglia, skin, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, or disseminated disease.
- The clinical course can range from insidious to rapidly fulminant.
Implications:
- Early recognition and diagnosis of mucormycosis in HIV patients are crucial.
- Treatment typically involves surgical debridement and intravenous amphotericin B.
- Understanding risk factors can aid in prevention and management strategies for this rare infection.