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Mucormycosis, past and present: a comprehensive review.
Ishita Gupta1, Pritika Baranwal1, Gagandeep Singh2
1Department of Microbiology, Ram Lal Anand College, University of Delhi, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi, 110021, India.
Future Microbiology
|March 27, 2023
Summary
Mucormycosis, a fungal infection, surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. This overview details COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) epidemiology, risk factors, and management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Mucormycosis is an opportunistic angioinvasive fungal infection.
- Risk factors include diabetes, neutropenia, corticosteroid use, transplantation, and immunosuppression.
- Its incidence significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of mucormycosis epidemiology and prevalence.
- To examine factors contributing to COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM).
- To review regulatory actions, diagnostic tools, and CAM management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and data synthesis.
- Analysis of pre- and post-COVID-19 epidemiological data.
- Examination of regulatory responses and clinical management strategies.
Main Results:
- Significant rise in mucormycosis cases linked to COVID-19.
- Identification of key predisposing factors exacerbated by the pandemic.
- Overview of established and emerging diagnostic and treatment protocols.
Conclusions:
- Mucormycosis, particularly CAM, requires urgent attention.
- Coordinated scientific and medical efforts are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality.
- Effective management strategies are essential for combating this emerging infection.
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