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Ocular and orbital phycomycosis.
Survey of Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1977
Summary
Cerebro-rhino-orbital phycomycosis (CROP) primarily affects diabetics with metabolic acidosis. Early diagnosis and treatment, including antifungals and surgery, are crucial for survival due to high mortality.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Cerebro-rhino-orbital phycomycosis (CROP) is a rare, aggressive fungal infection.
- It predominantly affects individuals with diabetes mellitus and metabolic acidosis.
- Leukemia and lymphoma patients are also at risk.
Observation:
- CROP typically originates in the palate or paranasal sinuses.
- The infection rapidly invades orbital structures, causing proptosis, vision loss, and ophthalmoplegia.
- Fungal invasion of arteries leads to thrombosis and tissue infarction.
Findings:
- Rhizopus is the most frequently identified fungal genus in CROP cases.
- Clinical manifestations provide strong diagnostic suspicion.
- Arterial invasion and subsequent infarction are characteristic pathological features.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for improving patient outcomes.
- Therapeutic strategies include managing underlying conditions, surgical debridement, and systemic amphotericin-B.
- Despite treatment advances, CROP retains a high mortality rate, emphasizing the need for early detection.