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Primary cutaneous zygomycosis in India
1Department of Surgery, Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, Chandigarh, India ; House No 132, Sector 6, Panchkula, 134 109 Haryana India.
The Indian Journal of Surgery
|December 3, 2013
Summary
Cutaneous zygomycosis is often underdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and high mortality. This review highlights key findings from Indian cases, emphasizing skin breach as a common predisposing factor.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cutaneous zygomycosis is a severe fungal infection that is frequently underdiagnosed.
- Delayed diagnosis leads to increased morbidity and mortality.
- Awareness of this condition is crucial for timely management and improved patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze reported cases of cutaneous zygomycosis in India.
- To identify common causative agents and predisposing factors.
- To determine the overall mortality rate associated with cutaneous zygomycosis in India.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of published literature on cutaneous zygomycosis in India was conducted.
- Data were collected from various search engines and cross-referenced from available manuscripts.
- A total of 42 publications detailing 130 cases were identified.
Main Results:
- The study identified 130 cases of cutaneous zygomycosis reported in India since 1976.
- The overall mortality rate was 35%.
- Apophysomyces elegans was the most common identified zygomycete, and skin breach was the most frequent predisposing factor. Diabetes was surprisingly reported in only 27.69% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous zygomycosis is an underdiagnosed infection in India with a high mortality rate.
- Breach of the skin is a primary risk factor, and Apophysomyces elegans is a common pathogen.
- Increased clinical awareness is essential for prompt diagnosis and effective management to improve outcomes.
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