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Ocular invasion in mucormycosis
T A Sponsler1, J W Sassani, L N Johnson
1Department of Ophthalmology, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State University, Hershey.
Abstract:
The histopathologic findings in a case of ocular invasion in rhinocerebral mucormycosis are described. The findings of hyphae in the inner sclera and marked involvement of the posterior ciliary arteries suggested an arterial route of ocular invasion by fungus. Only five other cases of rhinocerebral mucormycosis with ocular fungal invasion have been reported to our knowledge. All six patients died from the infection. As a group, these cases suggest that the presence of ocular infiltration by fungus may indicate poor prognosis in rhinocerebral mucormycosis.
Insights
Rhinocerebral mucormycosis invading the eye, a rare and fatal fungal infection, often spreads via posterior ciliary arteries. Ocular involvement in this condition signals a poor prognosis for patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Pathology
Background:
- Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a severe fungal infection with high mortality.
- Ocular invasion is a rare but devastating complication.
Observation:
- Histopathology revealed fungal hyphae in the inner sclera.
- Posterior ciliary arteries showed significant fungal involvement, suggesting arterial spread.
Findings:
- This case, along with five previously reported, highlights the arterial route of fungal invasion to the eye.
- All reported cases of ocular invasion in rhinocerebral mucormycosis resulted in patient death.
Implications:
- Ocular fungal infiltration in rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a critical indicator of a poor prognosis.
- Early detection and understanding of fungal spread mechanisms are crucial for managing this aggressive infection.