Gastrointestinal Mucormycosis Resulting in a Catastrophic Outcome in an Immunocompetent Patient

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology

Background:

• Mucormycosis is a rare, aggressive fungal infection, often affecting immunocompromised individuals.
• Intestinal mucormycosis is a particularly severe manifestation with high mortality rates.
• Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of intestinal mucormycosis presenting as an acute surgical abdomen.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and clinical course of this rare condition.
• To emphasize the importance of considering mucormycosis in patients with severe gastrointestinal complications.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a middle-aged female patient.
• Clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment strategies were reviewed.
• Pathological findings confirmed intestinal mucormycosis.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with respiratory infection, progressing to acute surgical abdomen due to a perforated viscous.
• Intestinal mucormycosis was diagnosed as the underlying cause.
• Despite medical and surgical interventions, the patient succumbed to the infection's sequelae.

Conclusions:

• Intestinal mucormycosis can present insidiously and mimic other abdominal emergencies.
• Early recognition and aggressive management are vital, though outcomes remain challenging.
• This case underscores the potential for severe gastrointestinal complications from mucormycosis.