Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis in patients with uncontrolled diabetes: A case series

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Endocrinology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Mucormycosis is a rare, aggressive fungal infection with a high fatality rate.
• It disproportionately affects immunocompromised individuals, especially those with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.
• Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is a particularly devastating form of the disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case series of patients with uncontrolled diabetes and mucormycosis.
• To illustrate the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis in this patient population.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of three patients with uncontrolled diabetes and mucormycosis.
• Clinical data included presenting symptoms (paranasal sinusitis, nasal discharge, ophthalmic changes, facial nerve involvement), diagnostic methods (microbiological testing, CT scans), and treatment regimens.
• Management involved tight glycemic control, urgent endoscopic sinus debridement, and antifungal therapy.

Main Results:

• All three patients presented with symptoms indicative of rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through microbiological and imaging studies.
• Combination therapy including glycemic control, surgical intervention, and antifungals was administered.

Conclusions:

• Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis necessitates a high index of suspicion in diabetic patients.
• Accurate diagnosis requires both microbiological and microscopic evidence.
• Integrated medical and surgical management strategies are essential for improving clinical outcomes.