Mucormycosis in India: Pathophysiology and Perspectives on Treatment and Management

Utsav Gupta1, Deepika Paliwal1, Samridhi Rawat1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical & Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Insights

Mucormycosis, or black fungus, is a dangerous infection affecting immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with diabetes. This review covers its epidemiology, pathogenesis, symptoms, and treatment, especially in COVID-19 patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Mucormycosis, known as "black fungus," is a severe, potentially fatal invasive fungal infection.
  • It disproportionately affects immunocompromised patients, with a notable increase among COVID-19 survivors.
  • Key risk factors include diabetes mellitus, hematological malignancy, and solid-organ transplantation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of mucormycosis.
  • To discuss the association between mucormycosis and COVID-19.
  • To outline current treatment and diagnostic strategies for black fungus infections.

Main Methods:

  • This study is a comprehensive literature review.
  • It synthesizes information on the causative agents, risk factors, and clinical presentation of mucormycosis.
  • The review examines diagnostic approaches and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

  • Mucormycosis is caused by fungi in the order Mucorales, commonly affecting patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
  • Symptoms include blurred vision, chest pain, and respiratory distress.
  • Effective management requires addressing predisposing factors, surgical debridement, and antifungal therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Mucormycosis presents significant challenges in India due to emerging risk factors and treatment difficulties.
  • Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
  • Understanding the interplay between COVID-19 and mucormycosis is vital for public health strategies.

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