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Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates
Published on: December 31, 2015
Allograft of Primary Cutaneous Mucormycosis in a Preterm Neonate: A Case Report
Tania Benjamin1, Rachel Wattier2, William Dominic3
1Resident Physician, Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA.
Introduction:
Primary cutaneous mucormycosis (PCM) is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect compromised hosts. Skin lesions evolve from an indurated area to a necrotic ulcer. Preterm neonates are at increased risk due to poorly developed skin, immature immune function, and invasive devices. Antifungals and debridement with grafting have been reported as primary treatments.
Case Report:
The authors report allografting in addition to systemic antifungals as an option for critically ill preterm neonates to decrease blood loss and risk of donor site infection. A female triplet was born to a 35-year-old G1P0211 mother; the triplet developed PCM (Rhizopus genus) and was treated with systemic liposomal amphotericin B in addition to debridement and allografting. Surgery was delayed initially, given concerns over the depth of invasion into the chest. As the wound began to contract and separate over the next few weeks, the decision was made to excise the lesion and reconstruct the chest wall with an allograft. The graft had good take and remained in place for 11 weeks until the patient succumbed to a third recurrence of bacterial sepsis.
Conclusions:
While PCM can be fatal for many preterm infants, debridement with allografting may serve as a valuable treatment option with fewer associated complications for neonates as they are stabilizing clinically.
Insights
Primary cutaneous mucormycosis (PCM) in preterm infants can be fatal. Debridement with allografting offers a promising treatment option, potentially reducing complications in critically ill neonates.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal dermatology
- Mycology
- Surgical reconstruction
Background:
- Primary cutaneous mucormycosis (PCM) is a severe fungal skin infection.
- Preterm neonates face heightened risk due to immature immunity and skin barriers.
- Established treatments include antifungals and surgical debridement with grafting.
Observation:
- A critically ill preterm infant with PCM caused by Rhizopus genus was treated.
- Systemic liposomal amphotericin B, debridement, and chest wall reconstruction with an allograft were employed.
- The allograft showed good integration, remaining in place for 11 weeks.
Findings:
- Allografting in conjunction with systemic antifungals is a viable strategy for neonates.
- This approach may mitigate risks associated with blood loss and donor site infections.
- Despite treatment, the infant ultimately succumbed to recurrent bacterial sepsis.
Implications:
- Debridement and allografting present a potentially safer alternative for neonates with PCM.
- This method may improve outcomes for neonates during clinical stabilization.
- Further research is warranted to optimize management of PCM in this vulnerable population.
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