Neonatal gastrointestinal mucormycosis--a case report

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Mucormycosis is a rare opportunistic fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
• It can be fatal in children and affect various organs, including the gastrointestinal tract.
• Diagnosis relies on histopathology, necessitating high clinical suspicion.

Observation:

• A case of a malnourished child presented with perforation peritonitis.
• Investigations revealed malnutrition, low serum proteins, and elevated kidney function markers.
• Exploratory laparotomy identified three gastrointestinal perforations.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination of perforation edges confirmed gastrointestinal mucormycosis.
• Fungal hyphae invasion of blood vessels led to thrombosis and tissue infarction.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering gastrointestinal mucormycosis in severely ill, malnourished children with abdominal emergencies.
• Early surgical exploration and prompt histopathological diagnosis are critical for timely treatment and improved outcomes.
• Further research into risk factors and diagnostic strategies for pediatric gastrointestinal mucormycosis is warranted.