Mucormycotic osteomyelitis of maxilla post-COVID patient: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology

Background:

• Fungal osteomyelitis is a rare, aggressive opportunistic infection, often affecting the orofacial region, particularly the nose and paranasal sinuses.
• Infection typically occurs via inhalation, progressing from sinuses to vascular invasion, thrombosis, and tissue necrosis.
• Prompt management is crucial to prevent potentially fatal outcomes.

Observation:

• A 31-year-old male presented with severe, radiating left-sided facial pain aggravated by chewing.
• The patient had a history of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
• Clinical presentation suggested an aggressive infectious or inflammatory process in the maxilla.

Findings:

• Diagnostic and interventional imaging confirmed mucormycotic osteomyelitis of the maxilla.
• The infection involved the vascular tissue, leading to thrombosis and necrosis of hard and soft tissues.
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus was identified as a significant risk factor.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering fungal infections, specifically mucormycosis, in the differential diagnosis of aggressive orofacial infections, especially in immunocompromised patients.
• Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are vital for improving patient outcomes in fungal osteomyelitis.
• Highlights the aggressive nature of mucormycotic osteomyelitis and its potential for rapid progression in diabetic patients.