Mucormycosis of Maxilla: An Enigma to the Clinician

Mucormycosis is an acute opportunistic infection caused by a saprophytic fungus found in the soil, decaying fruits, and vegetables. It is a rapidly progressing fungal infection mainly seen in nose and its surrounding sinuses due to inhalation of the spores of fungus from the contaminated areas. If not diagnosed and treated early, it can be life-threatening. A case of a 60-year male farmer is reported with an extensive spread of the fungal infection involving alveolar bone of maxilla, zygomatic process, and the right orbit. The radiographs demonstrated alveolar, palatal, and zygomatic bone destruction. The diagnosis of mucormycosis was made through clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings. An early diagnosis and treatment with antifungal drugs like amphotericin B and surgical resection can improve the prognosis. Key Words: Mucormycosis, Maxilla, Zygomatic bone, Antifungal.