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Published on: July 21, 2023

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Mucor and Malignancy: A Double-Hit Case of Intestinal Ischemia

Benjamin T Berger1, Matthew J Townsend1, Mitchell K Arbogast2

  • 1Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC.

ACG Case Reports Journal
|December 23, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Mucormycosis, a fungal infection, can manifest in the colon, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Early diagnosis is crucial for optimizing outcomes in patients with risk factors like diabetic ketoacidosis and undiagnosed colon cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Mucormycosis is an invasive fungal infection caused by molds of the order Mucorales.
  • These fungi are opportunistic pathogens commonly found in soil and decaying organic matter.
  • Immunocompromised individuals are primarily at risk.

Observation:

  • A case of angioinvasive colonic mucormycosis is presented.
  • The patient had recent diabetic ketoacidosis and an undiagnosed colon adenocarcinoma.
  • Diagnosis was confirmed via histopathology after the patient experienced intestinal ischemia and underwent hemicolectomy.

Findings:

  • Colonic mucormycosis can present with diverse clinical manifestations.
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis and undiagnosed colon adenocarcinoma are identified as potential risk factors.
  • Histopathological examination is key for diagnosing this invasive fungal infection.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the varied presentations of Mucorales infections.
  • Highlights the importance of considering both typical and atypical risk factors for mucormycosis.
  • Emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

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