Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis. Management strategies to avoid or limit intracraneal affection and improve

Olga Plowes Hernández1, Héctor M Prado Calleros1, Galo Santiago Soberón Marmissolle Daguerre1

  • 1División de Otorrinolaringología y Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello, Hospital General «Dr. Manuel Gea González», México DF, México.

Insights

This study reviews 5 cases of rhino-orbital mucormycosis, highlighting pterygomaxillary fossa involvement. Early aggressive surgical and medical treatment led to excellent patient survival rates.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

  • Mucormycosis is a rare, life-threatening opportunistic fungal infection.
  • Rhino-orbital mucormycosis presents a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review rhino-orbital mucormycosis cases managed at our institution.
  • To describe the diagnostic and therapeutic protocols employed.
  • To evaluate treatment outcomes and patient survival.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive study of 5 patients diagnosed with rhino-orbital mucormycosis between January and October 2013.
  • Evaluation of medical records, clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, and treatment strategies.
  • Surgical intervention included extensive endoscopic debridement and, when necessary, orbital exenteration.

Main Results:

  • Pterygomaxillary fossa involvement was observed in 100% of the cases.
  • All patients received early medical and surgical treatment.
  • Comprehensive treatment, including pterygomaxillary fossa debridement and orbital exenteration for orbital apex syndrome, resulted in complete survival.

Conclusions:

  • Early and aggressive multidisciplinary management is crucial for successful rhino-orbital mucormycosis treatment.
  • Extensive endoscopic debridement and orbital exenteration are effective surgical strategies.
  • Prompt intervention significantly improves survival outcomes in patients with rhino-orbital mucormycosis.