[Mucormycosis in paranasal sinuses].

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Paranasal sinus mucormycosis is a rare, life-threatening fungal infection.
• It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, including those with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for patient outcomes.

Observation:

• Five cases of paranasal sinus mucormycosis were analyzed.
• Two cases involved patients with coexisting diabetes mellitus, who rapidly developed meningitis.
• Infection spread from the ethmoidal sinus to the orbit and brain in fatal cases.

Findings:

• Surgical excision of necrotic, fungal masses combined with intravenous amphotericin B was the treatment approach.
• Three patients who underwent timely surgery after initial sinusitis diagnosis recovered fully.
• Two diabetic patients who developed meningitis died despite treatment, indicating aggressive disease progression.

Implications:

• Prompt surgical debridement and antifungal therapy are crucial for treating paranasal sinus mucormycosis.
• High-resolution CT scanning aids in treatment planning and monitoring therapeutic response.
• Aggressive management is vital, especially in diabetic patients where rapid progression to meningitis can occur.