Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 23, 2025
Nasal Brushing Sampling and Processing Using Digital High Speed Ciliary Videomicroscopy – Adaptation for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published on: November 7, 2020
Epidemiology, Clinical Features and Management of Rhino Orbital Mucormycosis in Post COVID 19 Patients
Esha J Desai1, Achal Pandya1, Ila Upadhya1
1Department of ENT, B. J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat India.
Abstract:
COVID 19 infections may be associated with a wide range of bacterial and fungal co-infections. Mucormycosis is a fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals. We have observed sudden rise of mucormycosis cases in post COVID 19 patients. Here we have reported 100 cases of mucormycosis associated with COVID 19. To study epidemiology and clinical features of rhino orbital mucormycosis in post COVID 19 patients. To evaluate efficacy of medical as well as surgical treatment in such patients. This was an observational mixed (retrospective + prospective) study with a duration of 2 months. After noting demographic data, necessary radiological investigation was advised and representative tissue was sent for KOH and histopathological examination. Medical and surgical treatment was planned accordingly. Most patients (55%) presented with complaint of headache and facial pain. Hard palate involvement was observed in 45% patients. Unilateral presentation (68%) was more common. Only 25% patients who presented early had normal vision. We reported 22 patients with complete loss of vision. Eye movements were restricted in 58% patients. Diabetes mellitus is most common predisposing factor (65%). 9 patients required orbital exentration. Only 18% patients required Amphotericin for more than 14 days. Immune dysregulation caused by COVID 19 infection in addition to widespread use of steroids and broad-spectrum antibiotics may lead to the development mucormycosis. Diabetes Mellitus type II is another important risk factor and the presence of both have additional effect in causing mucormycosis. Headache and facial pain should be considered highly suspicious of mucormycosis. Early diagnosis with efficient treatment can improve prognosis.
Insights
COVID-19 survivors are experiencing a rise in mucormycosis, a serious fungal infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in these post-COVID-19 patients.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- COVID-19 infections are linked to bacterial and fungal co-infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- A significant increase in mucormycosis cases has been observed in patients following COVID-19 infection.
- Mucormycosis, a severe fungal infection, poses a threat to post-COVID-19 patients, especially those with pre-existing conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of rhino-orbital mucormycosis in patients after COVID-19 infection.
- To assess the effectiveness of both medical and surgical interventions for treating mucormycosis in this patient group.
- To identify key risk factors and clinical presentations associated with post-COVID-19 mucormycosis.
Main Methods:
- An observational mixed-methods study (retrospective and prospective) was conducted over two months.
- Data collection included demographic information, radiological investigations, and tissue analysis (KOH and histopathology).
- Treatment strategies involved both medical management and surgical interventions tailored to individual patient needs.
Main Results:
- Headache and facial pain were the most common presenting symptoms (55%), with hard palate involvement in 45% of cases.
- Unilateral presentation (68%) was more frequent, and only 25% of early presenters retained normal vision; 22 patients experienced complete vision loss.
- Diabetes mellitus was the most common predisposing factor (65%), and 9 patients required orbital exenteration.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19-induced immune dysregulation, coupled with steroid and antibiotic use, likely contributes to mucormycosis development.
- Diabetes Mellitus type II is a significant risk factor, and its combination with COVID-19 increases mucormycosis risk.
- Prompt recognition of symptoms like headache and facial pain, followed by early diagnosis and effective treatment, is vital for better patient prognosis.
More Related Videos
09:02Infection of Primary Nasal Epithelial Cells Grown at an Air-Liquid Interface to Characterize Human Coronavirus-Host Interactions
Published on: September 22, 2023
03:40Acupoint Catgut Embedding Therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine for Managing Allergic Rhinitis
Published on: December 20, 2024
Related Concept Videos
01:29Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
01:30Epistaxis
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
01:20COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
01:26Tonsillitis II: Management
01:16Drugs Used in Upper Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
01:28Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include: