Mucormycosis in the Hand: A Case Report.

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Hand mucormycosis is a rare and severe fungal infection.
• It is associated with significant morbidity and a high risk of amputation.
• Limited data exists on reconstructive techniques for mucor-infected hand wounds.

Observation:

• A 25-year-old insulin-dependent woman presented with extensive soft tissue infection of the left hand.
• Cultures revealed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and mucor species.
• The patient had a history of diabetes mellitus.

Findings:

• Treatment involved intravenous liposomal amphotericin B and vancomycin.
• Surgical debridement was performed.
• A pedicled groin flap was utilized for wound coverage.

Implications:

• This case highlights the successful limb salvage of a complex hand infection involving MRSA and mucormycosis.
• The pedicled groin flap proved effective for reconstructing mucor-induced defects in the hand.
• Early diagnosis, aggressive antimicrobial treatment, and timely surgical reconstruction are crucial for managing hand mucormycosis and preventing amputation.